City of Walnut Creek
Home MenuFood Based Home Occupations
State law, called California Homemade Food Act, allows certain foods to be made in private homes and sold to the public. This is also referred to as Cottage Foods and people who run these home-based businesses are sometimes called Cottage Food Operators (CFOs).
Where they are allowed
Review the General Plan and Zoning requirements for the project site. Your proposal must be consistent with both documents. In general, CFOs are allowed in residential dwelling units in residential or commercial districts. For help with this research, call us at (925) 256-3558.
No employees or customers in your home
If you do not have employees or customers in your home, you need to get a home occupation permit.
Employees or customers in your home
If employees or customers visit your home, you need to apply for a conditional use permit.
Other permits and licenses
- You are also required to get a business license. You should get the home occupation permit first. You’ll want to make sure that you are allowed to operate your business before getting a business license.
- A building permit will be required if any new construction or alterations to existing structures are made. For information about building permits, contact the Building Division at (925) 943-5834.
- A County Cottage Food Operations registration or permit is also required. Contact the Contra Costa County Environmental Health Department at (925) 608-5512 for more information.
Related
Contact
Planning staff
Call (925) 256-3558
Email DutyPlanner@walnut-creek.org