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

Cottage food operations in unincorporated Stanislaus County are administered by the Stanislaus County Department of Environmental Resources, Division of Environmental Health (3800 Cornucopia Way, Suite C, Modesto; 209.525.6700), under the California Homemade Food Act signed into law September 21, 2012, which amended the California Health and Safety Code to allow certain non-potentially-hazardous foods to be made in a home kitchen. The County recognizes two classifications. Class A operators may sell cottage foods directly — from their residence, certified farmers' markets, bake sales and community events — and complete a Class A Self-Certification Checklist to obtain an annual registration. Class B operators may sell directly and indirectly (through local shops, restaurants and other third-party sales), complete a Class B Supplemental Application, are inspected annually, and obtain an annual permit; Class B kitchens are inspected before a permit is issued. Anyone preparing or packaging cottage food products must complete an approved Food Handler Course within three months of obtaining the registration or permit, and scales used for packaging may require approval by the County Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures (209.525.4730). Only foods on the California Department of Public Health approved list (e.g., breads and non-cream baked goods, candy, dried fruit and pasta, jams/jellies/fruit butters, honey, nut butters, granola, roasted coffee and dried tea) qualify. CFOs may also need to meet County zoning and planning criteria (parking, noise, traffic) under the Planning Department.