Santa Clara vs Sunnyvale
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Santa Clara, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Santa Clara has fewer restrictions than Sunnyvale.
Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara home kitchens may operate as Cottage Food Operations under CA AB 1616 and AB 1240. Registration or permit from Santa Clara County Public Health is required.
View full Santa Clara rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
California AB 1616 and AB 1240 allow home-based Cottage Food Operations in Sunnyvale. Class A permits direct sales up to 75000 dollars. Class B allows indirect sales through retail with additional inspections.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Clara | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Framework | AB 1616, AB 1240 CFO + MEHKO | - |
| Permit agency | SCC Environmental Health | - |
| Class A | Direct sales, registration | - |
| Class B | Indirect sales, permit + inspection | - |
| Training | Approved food processor course | - |
| State law | - | AB 1616 and AB 1240 |
| Class A sales cap | - | 75000 dollars per year |
| Class B inspections | - | Required annually |
| County permit | - | Santa Clara County Environmental Health |
| City requirement | - | Home occupation permit plus business license |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Clara FAQ
Can I sell homemade hot meals?
Yes, under the MEHKO program if Santa Clara County has opted in and you obtain the appropriate permit. Standard Cottage Food does not cover hot meals.
Do I need a business license too?
Yes. In addition to county health registration, you need a Santa Clara city business license and must follow home occupation standards.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I sell homemade tamales under cottage food in Sunnyvale?
Tamales are not on the approved cottage food list because they contain potentially hazardous ingredients. Consider the MEHKO program under AB 626 instead.
Do I need a business license from Sunnyvale too?
Yes, in addition to the county cottage food registration you need a Sunnyvale business license and a home occupation permit.
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