Cottage Food Operations: Pasadena vs South San Gabriel
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Pasadena, CA and South San Gabriel, CA?
South San Gabriel has fewer restrictions than Pasadena.
Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
California's Cottage Food Law allows home-based food production. Class A operations (direct sales, $75K cap) register with Pasadena Health Department. Class B (indirect sales, $150K cap) require county registration. City business license also required.
View full Pasadena rules →South San Gabriel, CA
Los Angeles County
Cottage food operations in unincorporated LA County are governed by California's Homemade Food Act (AB 1616/AB 626). Class A operators sell direct to consumers. Class B operators (indirect sales, farmers markets) need LA County DPH registration. Annual sales caps apply.
View full South San Gabriel rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Pasadena | South San Gabriel |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct sales, $75K cap | Direct sales, $75,000 cap |
| Class B | Indirect sales, $150K cap | County health registration needed |
| Health Dept | Pasadena (independent) | - |
| Business License | Required | - |
| State Law | - | CA HSC 113758 |
| Labeling | - | Home kitchen disclosure required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Pasadena FAQ
Can I sell homemade baked goods from my home?
Yes, under cottage food laws in most areas. Pasadena allows certain shelf-stable foods sold directly to consumers with proper labeling.
Do I need a commercial kitchen?
No, cottage food laws allow production in your home kitchen without commercial inspection, within revenue limits.
South San Gabriel FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from home in LA County?
Yes, under California's Cottage Food Law. Class A permits direct sales up to $75,000/year from your home or farmers markets with just a self-certification checklist. No commercial kitchen is needed.
What foods can I sell under the Cottage Food Law?
Non-potentially-hazardous foods: baked goods, candy, chocolate, dried fruit, granola, honey, jams/jellies, nut butters, popcorn, and more. Foods requiring refrigeration are not permitted.
Do I need a health permit for cottage food?
Class A (direct sales only) requires only a self-certification checklist. Class B (sales through stores/restaurants) requires registration with LA County Department of Public Health at (888) 700-9995.
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