We got our permit! Cottage Industries Permit Part IV Flip Flop Ranch
We got our permit! Cottage Industries Permit Part IV Flip Flop Ranch from flipflopranchfarmstay.com

Introduction

If you're a food entrepreneur in San Diego, you might have heard of the Cottage Food Law. This law allows you to sell certain types of homemade foods without having to rent a commercial kitchen. However, to legally sell your homemade food, you need to obtain a Cottage Food Permit from the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about getting a Cottage Food Permit in 2023.

What is a Cottage Food Permit?

A Cottage Food Permit is a legal document that allows you to sell certain types of homemade food in San Diego County. This permit is required by law if you want to sell your homemade food to the public. The Cottage Food Permit is issued by the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health (DEH).

Types of Foods You Can Sell with a Cottage Food Permit

Not all foods can be sold with a Cottage Food Permit. The DEH has a list of approved foods that can be sold under the Cottage Food Law. Some of the most popular foods on the approved list include:
  • Baked goods (bread, cookies, cakes, etc.)
  • Candy (chocolate, fudge, etc.)
  • Jams, jellies, and preserves
  • Dried fruit and nuts
  • Honey and bee pollen

Requirements for Getting a Cottage Food Permit

To get a Cottage Food Permit in San Diego County, you need to meet certain requirements. Some of the requirements include:
  • You must be 18 years or older.
  • You must complete a food processor course.
  • Your home kitchen must meet certain requirements (e.g., a separate handwashing sink, proper ventilation, etc.)
  • You must label your food products correctly (e.g., list ingredients, allergens, etc.)

How to Apply for a Cottage Food Permit in San Diego

To apply for a Cottage Food Permit in San Diego, you need to follow these steps:
  1. Complete a food processor course from an approved provider.
  2. Fill out the Cottage Food Operation Registration Form on the San Diego DEH website.
  3. Submit the form and pay the permit fee.
  4. Wait for the DEH to inspect your home kitchen.
  5. If your kitchen passes the inspection, you'll be issued a Cottage Food Permit.

Benefits of Having a Cottage Food Permit

Having a Cottage Food Permit can be beneficial for food entrepreneurs in San Diego. Some of the benefits include:
  • You can legally sell your homemade food to the public.
  • You can save money by not having to rent a commercial kitchen.
  • You can test the market for your food products without making a large investment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you're a food entrepreneur in San Diego, getting a Cottage Food Permit can be a great option for legally selling your homemade food. By following the requirements and applying for a permit with the San Diego County DEH, you can start your food business with ease.