Cottage Food Operations

Cottage Food Operators (CFO) may prepare and sell “non-potentially hazardous foods,” which are foods that are unlikely to grow harmful bacteria or other toxic microorganisms at room temperature. The list of foods is maintained by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and it is posted here: Cottage Food Operations (Approved Food List). 

How to Apply for a Permit

Step 1. Complete the Cottage Food Operation Application

You can apply for a CFO Permit, pay invoices, and manage your permits online using MyEHS.

If you’re unable to apply online with MyEHS, you can download and complete a CFO PDF application here (see Downloadable Applications Forms Section).

Step 2. Pay the Application Fee

A non-refundable fee is required. Review the list of fees and look for line item #FO900 Food Facility Permit Application Fee. 

Payments cannot be made to or accepted by inspectors. Payments must be made in person at the Environmental Health Services office, by mail, by phone at (650) 372-6200, or online through the MyEHS Portal.

Step 3. Submit Supporting Documents

Email, mail, or drop off the following items to Environmental Health Services:

•  List of CFO products and describe the process. Maximum number of CFO products is 5. Number of CFO products exceeding 5 or review time exceeding the initial 2-hour allotted time is subject to additional fees at the current hourly rate.
• Sample labels for each product (renewals must include actual labels in use)
• Food Handler Certification (if available)

  Email: homebasedfoodoperation@smcgov.org.
  Mail or In Person:
  2000 Alameda de las Pulgas, Suite 100
  San Mateo, CA 94403
  Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Application Reviews
Application reviews may take up to 30 business days from the date of application fee payment. All revision submittals are also subject to the 30 business day review time.

Contact Information

For more information or questions, email homebasedfoodoperation@smcgov.org or call (650) 372-6200.