Food permits
- Restaurants, food trucks, and caterers: health permit from your county environmental health department.
- Packaged food manufacturers and wholesalers: Processed Food Registration from CDPH.
- Cottage food: register or get a permit from your county. Class A allows direct sales to consumers; Class B also allows sales through local shops and restaurants. Annual sales caps are adjusted for inflation.
- Home kitchen meals: some counties and cities allow Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKOs). Check whether yours has opted in.
- Alcohol requires a license from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).
Local health department requirements
- Food employees must get a California food handler card within 30 days of hire.
- Most food facilities need at least one certified food protection manager.
- Expect annual health permits and routine inspections.
- Farmers markets and events need a temporary food facility permit.
- Your city usually requires a business license too.
Facility permits
- New or remodeled food facilities need health department plan check before construction.
- Food trucks must operate from an approved commissary.
- Building, fire, and zoning approvals come from your city or county.
- Commercial kitchens usually need a grease interceptor.
These are California state and federal requirements. Cities and counties often add their own. Requirements and fees change — confirm with the agency before you apply. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Other California Business Types
California Construction & Trades: Licenses and Permits
Construction / Trades license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for California LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
California Transportation Business: Licenses and Permits
Transportation license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for California LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
California Ecommerce Business: Licenses and Permits
Ecommerce license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for California LLCs, as bullet points with official links.
California Consulting & Freelance Business: Licenses and Permits
Consulting / Freelance license, permit, tax, and insurance requirements for California LLCs, as bullet points with official links.