Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Kern County in California?
Yes, you can sell food and beverage out of your home in Kern County in California, however you must obtain appropriate permits from the Kern County Building and Safety Department prior to beginning any home-based food operations. Regulations vary based on the type and scale of operation. It is recommended that potential vendors contact their local county health department for specific information related to their specific business plan.
What is the Cottage Food Law in Kern County in California?
The Cottage Food Law in Kern County, California allows individuals to prepare and sell certain non-potentially hazardous food items from their home. This law helps individuals establish small home-based businesses, without having to obtain a full commercial kitchen or other costly permits. Cottage Food Operators must obtain a permit from the county Department of Environmental Health. Approved food items include baked goods such as cookies, breads, cakes, tortillas, and pies; jams, jellies, and preserves made with fruits; nuts and nut mixes; popcorn; spices; candy; tea blends; and dried fruits and vegetables.
What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Kern County in California?
According to California’s Cottage Food Operations Act (AB 1616), all pre-packaged food products that are sold at a farmer’s market, retail store, or other public event must have the following information printed on the label:
1. Name and physical address of the cottage food operation
2. Name of food product
3. List of ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight or volume
4. Net weight or volume of the food product
5. Allergen information as required by Section 25249.8 of the California Health and Safety Code (e.g., contains peanuts, milk, wheat, etc.)
6. Statement declaring “This product was made in a home kitchen and is not subject to the same safety and sanitation standards required in a commercial kitchen”
7. Date when the food was made or packaged
Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Kern County in California?
Yes, cottage foods in Kern County are taxable in California. All food products sold for human consumption are subject to California sales tax. However, there are some exceptions such as certain food items produced by certified farmers’ markets and certified cottage food operations that are not taxable.
Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Kern County in California?
Yes, you need to establish a business entity to sell cottage foods in Kern County in California. This is due to California’s Cottage Food Law, which requires that cottage food operators register with their county health department and obtain a permit before they can sell food. Additionally, businesses are required to have proper insurance and be compliant with all applicable food safety regulations.
What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Kern County in California?
In order to sell food out of your home in Kern County, California, you must obtain a Kern County Public Health Services Department, Retail Food Facility Permit. This permit is required regardless of the food product being sold or the amount of money collected. You must also obtain a valid Kern County business license. Additionally, you may need to obtain separate permits from the county and state for additional items such as alcohol sales and tobacco products.
Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Kern County in California?
No, a Cottage Food Business does not need a food handlers license in Kern County, California. However, a Cottage Food Business must be registered with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) in order to sell baked goods and other non-potentially hazardous food products directly to consumers. The registration process requires you to fill out a form and pay an annual fee.
How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Kern County in California?
The cost for obtaining a food safety license or certification in Kern County in California will vary depending on which certification you need. Generally, the cost for a basic Food Handler Card Certification is $16, and the cost for a more comprehensive Food Manager Certification is $125.
Who Regulates Food Safety in Kern County in California?
The Kern County Department of Public Health is responsible for regulating food safety in Kern County, California.
How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Kern County in California?
A Food Handlers License in Kern County, California must be renewed every three years.
What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Kern County in California?
In Kern County, California, all food trucks must obtain permits from the Kern County Public Health Department and the local municipality. The required permits include a Temporary Food Facility Permit, which is issued by the Kern County Public Health Department. This permit is valid for up to 14 days and must be renewed every two weeks. Other permits may be required from the local municipality, such as a business license, sales tax permit, health permit, and zoning permit.
What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Kern County in California?
The specific permits needed for a food booth in Kern County, California, will depend on the types of food and drinks being served, as well as the types of preparation and storage methods being used. However, some general permits that may be required include a Temporary Food Facility Permit, Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) license, a Health Permit from the Kern County Department of Environmental Health, and a business license from the Kern County Registrar of Voters. Additionally, it may be necessary to obtain additional permits from local fire and zoning departments.
What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Kern County in California?
In Kern County, California, all food businesses need to be licensed and permitted by the county’s Environmental Health Services Department. To operate a cottage food business in Kern County, food operators must submit an application for a Cottage Food Operations Permit. This permit is valid for two years and must be renewed annually. Additionally, food operators must obtain a business tax registration certificate from the Kern County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office prior to operating their business.
What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Kern County in California?
The penalties for selling food without a permit in Kern County in California vary depending on the circumstances. Generally, a person or business found to be selling food without a permit can be liable for fines and may be subject to criminal penalties such as jail time. Additionally, the health department may take action such as suspending the business’s license or ordering it to close until the necessary permits are obtained.
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