Mariposa County, CA Home Business: Cottage Food Operations (2026)

Mariposa County Environmental Health administers Cottage Food Operations (CFOs) countywide under the California Homemade Food Act, AB 1616 (Gatto). The County's registration/permitting form sets out two categories: 'Class A' (direct sales only) is a one-time registration with a self-certification checklist; 'Class B' (direct and indirect sales) requires an annual permit and regular annual facility inspections in addition to complaint/illness inspections. Only non-potentially-hazardous foods on the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) approved list may be made — foods containing cream, custard, or meat fillings are prohibited. Approved products include baked goods, candy, jams and jellies, dried pasta, granola, roasted coffee, honey, and similar items. Operators may not have more than one full-time-equivalent employee (not counting family/household members) working in the registered home area. Gross annual sales are capped — exceeding $50,000 (for 2015 and later years) means the operation loses CFO status and must move to a commercial facility. All products must be labeled with 'Made in a Home Kitchen' in 12-point type, the product name, the operation's name/city/state/zip, the registration or permit number (and county for Class B), ingredient list, net quantity, and allergen declaration. CFOs must complete a CDPH food processor course within 3 months of approval. A plan-check fee applies at application. Contact Environmental Health at 209-966-2220 (eh@mariposacounty.gov).