California's Homemade Food Act (Health & Safety Code §113758 et seq.) governs Cottage Food Operations (CFOs). Class A CFOs (direct sales) self-certify with Butte County Environmental Health; Class B CFOs (indirect sales through retailers) require a county-issued permit and annual kitchen inspection. State law sets the gross-sales caps ($75,000 Class A, $150,000 Class B). Chico does not impose a separate ban — CFOs that meet state law are an allowed home occupation use under CMC 19.20.060.
Cottage food is defined in HSC §113758 and is limited to non-potentially-hazardous foods on the CDPH approved list (baked goods without cream/meat fillings, jams/jellies, granola, dried teas, etc.). Butte County Environmental Health (BCEH) handles registration: Class A operators submit a Self-Certification Checklist and CFO Registration Application; Class B operators submit a permit application and undergo an initial and annual inspection. Email applications to BCEnvHealth@ButteCounty.net. State labeling requirements (HSC §114365.5) include the producer's name, address, registration/permit number, ingredients, allergens, net weight, and the statement "Made in a Home Kitchen." The CFO operator may employ no more than one non-family employee. The City of Chico requires the CFO to also obtain a City business license and comply with CMC 19.20.060 home occupation standards (floor area, traffic, signage).
Operating a CFO without county registration/permit is a violation of HSC §114405 and may trigger cease-and-desist orders, fines, and embargo of products. City code enforcement can separately cite for missing business license or violation of home occupation standards.
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