Cottage Food Operations | Environmental Health | Riverside County

CFO Types

Class A

CFOs may engage in a direct sale of cottage food products. A direct sale is a transaction between the CFO operator and the consumer via the phone, internet, or any other digital method and may be fulfilled in person, via mail delivery, or using any other third-party delivery service. Direct sales may take place at bake sales, certified farmers’ markets, and even temporary events. This class type will not require initial or routine inspections from our Department but must complete the following prior to operating:

• Submit a completed self-certification checklist prior to operation.
• Submit a completed Registration/Permitting form and register with our Department. This is required annually.
• Submit an Application/Registration to Operate a Food Facility

Prior to coming in with your paperwork please call your local area office to make an appointment to meet with an Environmental Health Specialist about your business.

Class B

CFOs may engage in direct and indirect sales of cottage food products. An indirect sale is where a consumer purchases a cottage food product made by a cottage food operator at a third-party retailer and may be fulfilled in person, via mail delivery, or using any other third-party delivery service. A retail food facility that holds a valid health permit including markets, restaurants, bakeries, and delis are third-party retailers. Prior to operating CFOs in this class must:

• Make an appointment with an Environmental Health Specialist for an initial inspection. The initial inspection will be conducted in the kitchen and food storage area(s) and is required before issuing a permit
• Submit a completed Registration/Permitting form and obtain an annual permit from our Department
• Submit an Application/Registration to Operate a Food Facility

Cottage Food Operations on a well