Fremont follows California Cottage Food Law (AB 1616 and AB 1240). Class A direct sales allowed with registration; Class B indirect sales need permit. Max $150,000 gross receipts.
California Cottage Food Operations (CFO) allow residents to prepare and sell approved low-risk foods from their home kitchen. Fremont CFOs register with Alameda County Environmental Health. Class A CFOs may sell directly to consumers (farmers markets, events, home pickup) with a self-registration form. Class B CFOs sell indirectly through restaurants, grocery stores, or resellers and require a health permit plus annual inspection. AB 1616 established the program; AB 1240 expanded it and raised the 2023 gross sales cap to 150,000 dollars. Approved products include baked goods without cream or custard fillings, jams, jellies, dried pasta, granola, nut butters, popcorn, chocolates, candies, and dried fruits. Food must be labeled with producer name, address, CFO registration number, ingredients, allergens, and the statement Made in a Home Kitchen. A Fremont Home Occupation Permit and Business Tax Certificate are also required. Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKO, AB 626) are not yet opted in by Alameda County.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle cottage food operations.
See how Fremont's cottage food operations rules stack up against other locations.
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