Cottage food operations in San Mateo are permitted under California's Homemade Food Act (AB 1616/AB 1266). Class A (direct sales) requires self-certification with San Mateo County. Class B (indirect sales to stores) requires a county health permit. Revenue is capped at $75,000 per year.
The California Homemade Food Act allows San Mateo residents to produce and sell approved shelf-stable foods from their home kitchen. Class A operations sell directly to consumers (at home, farmers markets) and require only self-certification and a food handler card through San Mateo County Environmental Health. Class B operations sell indirectly through stores and restaurants and require a county health permit with kitchen inspection. Approved products include baked goods, dried fruits, granola, candy, jams, and other non-potentially hazardous items. Annual revenue is capped at $75,000. Products must be labeled with the operation name, address, and "Made in a Home Kitchen." A city business license is required. Home occupation restrictions under SMMC Section 27.16.040 apply, including the 5-client-visit-per-day limit.
Selling unapproved foods is a health code violation. Operating without county registration may result in enforcement. Exceeding revenue cap requires a commercial food facility permit.
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