Looking for a way to earn money by selling food from your home? A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Permit may be what you are looking for. As of January 1, 2019 chefs can legally make and sell select amounts of food for the public in their home.
Riverside County was the first to implement this program and allow the operation of Microenterprise Home Kitchens. Take a look at Riverside County’s Ordinance regarding Microenterprise Home Kitchens here.
What is a MHKO?
A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MHKO) is a food facility that is operated by the resident of a private home. Food can be stored, prepared, and served to customers at the MHKO. Food has to be made, cooked, and served on the same day, with no more than 30 meals per day, or a total of 90 meals per week. For more information on operational requirements take a look at the MHKO informational bulletin English | Spanish.
How to Start a MHKO:
- Submit your Standard Operating Procedures (English / Spanish) and menu to your local area office.
- Obtain a Food Safety Manager Certification for the MHKO owner, and a Riverside County Food Handler Certification for all other people involved in the MHKO.
- Submit an Application/Registration to Operate a Food Facility.
- Schedule an inspection of your home kitchen operation.
MHKOs on a Well
MHKOs that use water from a private well need to have the water tested by a State Certified Laboratory on a regular basis.