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

California's California Homemade Food Act, codified at Health & Safety Code §§113758 and 114365-114365.5, allows home-based cottage food operations (CFOs) to sell non-potentially hazardous 'approved foods' listed by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). The approved list includes baked goods without cream or custard, candies, jams and jellies, dry mixes, granola, dried fruit, popcorn, roasted coffee beans, and chocolate-covered nonperishable foods. Class A permits (direct-to-consumer at farmers markets, home pickup, online with local delivery) require only a self-certification and $75-$125 annual fee through San Joaquin County Environmental Health Department. Class B permits (indirect sales to retail stores and restaurants) require an in-home kitchen inspection and $200-$300 fee. Revenue cap was raised by AB 831 (2021) to $150,000 annual gross sales effective January 1, 2022. Required labeling under §114365.5: producer name and address, permit number, ingredient list (in descending order by weight), allergen disclosures (FDA top 9 allergens), net weight, and the statement 'Made in a Home Kitchen.' Cities in San Joaquin County layer their own business-tax certificates: Stockton ($90/year typical), Lodi ($50/year), Manteca, and Tracy. AB 1325 (2021) adds Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKO) allowing 30-meal/day home restaurants where counties have opted in — San Joaquin County has not yet opted in to MEHKO.