Cottage Food Laws in Santa Clara County in California

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Santa Clara County in California?

Yes, it is possible to sell food and beverage out of your home in Santa Clara County in California. To sell food and beverage from home, you must first obtain a permit from the Santa Clara County Environmental Health Department. Depending on the type of food you are selling, additional permits may be required.

What is the Cottage Food Law in Santa Clara County in California?

The Cottage Food Law in Santa Clara County, California allows certain food products that are prepared in the home to be sold to the public. This law has a list of food items which can be sold and specifies labeling requirements for food products. The law also sets rules regarding how much of the food can be sold and where it can be sold.

What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Santa Clara County in California?

Santa Clara County requires that cottage food labels must include the following information:

• The name and address of the cottage food operation
• A list of ingredients
• The weight or volume of the product, and/or total servings
• A “Best By” date or other date marking
• If applicable, include allergen warnings as mandated by law
• A statement that the product was “Made in a Home Kitchen not Subject to County Inspection”
• A statement that the product is for “Internal Consumption Only”.

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Santa Clara County in California?

Yes, cottage foods in Santa Clara County, California are subject to the local sales and use tax. Additionally, they are subject to California’s statewide sales and use tax, which is currently at 7.25%.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Santa Clara County in California?

Yes, you do need to establish a business entity to sell cottage foods in Santa Clara County in California. Cottage food operations in California must be registered with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Additionally, they must obtain a business license from the county or city where the business will be located. Depending on the type of business entity you choose, you may also need to obtain a sellers permit and/or federal and state employer identification numbers (EIN).

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

In order to sell food out of your home in Santa Clara County, California, you will need to obtain a Cottage Food Operation Permit from the Santa Clara County Environmental Health Department. The permit is valid for one year and covers the production of non-potentially hazardous foods such as jams, jellies, baked goods, candy, dried fruit or nuts, pickles, and other similar products. The permit also requires you to have a food facility permit from the County Health Department. You will also need to comply with all applicable laws and regulations related to food safety and sanitation.

Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Santa Clara County in California?

No, Cottage Food Businesses in Santa Clara County, California do not need a food handlers license. However, they are required to register for a permit with the Santa Clara County Environmental Health Department.

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

The cost of obtaining a food safety license or certification in Santa Clara County, California, varies depending on the type of license or certification you are seeking. Generally, the cost of obtaining a food safety handler license through the Santa Clara County Public Health Department is $16 per person or $75 for a group of six people. For a full food safety certification, the cost is usually $125 for a one-day class and $185 for a two-day class. Additionally, some food safety certifications may require additional fees for examinations or other requirements.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Santa Clara County in California?

The Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health (SCCDEH) regulates food safety in Santa Clara County in California. The department is responsible for enforcing the California Retail Food Code to ensure food products are of safe quality and free from contamination. The department also inspects restaurants and other food establishments, provides educational resources and training, and conducts investigations into food-related illnesses.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Santa Clara County in California?

A food handler’s license in Santa Clara County, California is valid for three years from the date of issue.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Santa Clara County in California?

In order to operate a food truck in Santa Clara County, California, you will need to obtain a variety of permits and licenses.

1. Mobile Food Facility Permit – This is issued by the Santa Clara County Environmental Health Department and gives permission to prepare and offer food from a food truck on public property.

2. Health Permit – This is issued by the Santa Clara County Environmental Health Department and allows the sale of food at public events.

3. Business License – This is issued by the Business License Office of the Santa Clara County and allows for the operation of a business within the county.

4. City/County Permits – Depending on where you will be operating your food truck, you may need to obtain City or County permits as well that allow you to conduct business there.

5. Fire Permits – The Fire Marshal in Santa Clara County will need to inspect your food truck for safety and issue a fire permit before you can operate your business.

6. Food Handler’s Certificate – All employees working at your food truck must have a valid Food Handler’s Certificate in order to prepare and handle food safely.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Santa Clara County in California?

In order to operate a food booth in Santa Clara County, California, you will need a Temporary Food Facility permit from the Santa Clara County Environmental Health Department. This permit is valid for one calendar year and must be renewed annually. You will also need to register your food booth with the Santa Clara County Department of Tax and Fee Administration, and obtain a seller’s permit from the State Board of Equalization. Additionally, if you plan to cook food on-site or serve alcohol, you may need additional permits. It is important to check with the local health department for specific regulations and requirements that may apply to your food booth.

What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Santa Clara County in California?

In Santa Clara County, California, a Cottage Food Business is subject to the regulations of the California Homemade Food Act (CHFA). As such, anyone wishing to start a Cottage Food Business must obtain a CHFA Registration from the California Department of Public Health. Additionally, before beginning operations, all cottage food businesses must gain approval from the county health department in order to ensure proper safety and sanitation measures are met. The applicant must also provide proof of a commercial food facility license and liability insurance.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Santa Clara County in California?

Selling food without a permit is considered a misdemeanor in Santa Clara County, California. The penalty for such an offense ranges from a fine of up to $1,000 and/or a jail sentence of up to six months. In addition, the violator may also be subject to civil penalties, such as the cost of any investigations and/or enforcement activities associated with the incident.