Cottage Food Laws in Contra Costa County in California

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Contra Costa County in California?

No, it is not legal to sell food and beverage out of one’s home in Contra Costa County, California. According to the Contra Costa County Environmental Health Division, selling food out of one’s home is prohibited due to the potential health risks associated with food handling and preparation in an unregulated setting.

What is the Cottage Food Law in Contra Costa County in California?

The Cottage Food Law in Contra Costa County, California, is a local ordinance that allows individuals to produce certain types of food items from their own home kitchens without needing to obtain a food establishment license from the Contra Costa Environmental Health Department. This law enables individuals to sell certain non-potentially hazardous foods (such as baked goods, jams, jellies, candy, dried herbs and spices, roasted coffee beans, and dried tea leaves) directly to consumers at farmers’ markets, roadside stands, community events, or through Internet sales.

What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Contra Costa County in California?

In Contra Costa County, cottage food labels must include the name of the product, the name and address of the cottage food operation, ingredients listed in decreasing order by weight, a list of major food allergens (if applicable), a “made in home kitchen” statement, nutritional facts (if applicable), and an expiration date or a “use by” date. Additionally, all pre-packaged foods must include a full list of ingredients.

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Contra Costa County in California?

Yes, cottage foods are taxable in Contra Costa County in California. The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) requires cottage food producers to register for a seller’s permit and collect and remit sales tax on sales of cottage food products.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Contra Costa County in California?

Yes, in order to legally sell cottage foods in Contra Costa County in California, you must first establish a business entity. This includes registering your business with the California Secretary of State and obtaining any necessary local or state permits or licenses. Additionally, you must comply with any applicable zoning laws and food safety standards set by the county.

What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Contra Costa County in California?

In order to sell food out of your home in Contra Costa County in California, you will need to obtain a Business License from the County Clerk-Recorder and an environmental permit from the Contra Costa County Environmental Health Services. Additionally, you must have a valid California Food Handler Certificate and comply with all applicable health and safety regulations.

Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Contra Costa County in California?

No, a cottage food business does not need a food handlers license in Contra Costa County in California. However, if the business produces, packages, or sells any potentially hazardous foods (e.g. perishable items that need to be refrigerated), then the business may need to obtain a permit from the local health department.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Contra Costa County in California?



The cost to obtain a food safety license or certification in Contra Costa County in California varies depending on the type of license or certification being sought. Generally, the cost for a Food Safety Manager Certification course is approximately $30-$100, while the cost for a retail food establishment license is around $150.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Contra Costa County in California?

Food safety in Contra Costa County, California is regulated by the County Health Services Department (CHSD) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Contra Costa County in California?

The food handler’s card issued by the Contra Costa County Environmental Health Department is valid for three years.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Contra Costa County in California?

In Contra Costa County, California, you must obtain a mobile food facility (MFF) permit and a health permit in order to operate a food truck. The MFF permit is issued by the local county Environmental Health Department and the health permit is issued by the California Department of Public Health. Additionally, you may need to obtain other permits from the local county or city in which your food truck operates. These may include a business license, a sales tax permit, and/or an encroachment permit.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Contra Costa County in California?

In order to operate a food booth in Contra Costa County in California, you will need a few permits:

1. A Temporary Food Facility Permit from the Environmental Health Department. This permit must be obtained prior to operating the food booth.

2. A Business License from your local jurisdiction.

3. A Health Permit from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

4. A Building and Safety Permit, depending on the type of structure (if any) you intend to use for the booth.

5. A Fire Permit from your local fire department.

What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Contra Costa County in California?

In Contra Costa County in California, cottage food businesses must obtain a Cottage Food Operation Registration from the Contra Costa County Environmental Health Department in order to legally sell home-made food products. This registration must be renewed annually. In addition, all cottage food products must be prepared in a private home kitchen or an approved commercial kitchen with a valid health permit. Finally, cottage food operators must also obtain a California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) seller’s permit in order to collect sales taxes on their products.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Contra Costa County in California?

The penalty for selling food without a permit in Contra Costa County, California is a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 6 months in jail. In addition, the County may also seek to have the business closed, its equipment seized, and a lien placed on the property of the business owner.