California has long been a playground for food enthusiasts, from weekend bakers to Michelin-starred chefs. But for many, the path to a legitimate food business is challenging due to the high costs.
But luckily for them, this state law is changing the landscape for home-based culinary entrepreneurs, making it possible to turn that passion into a legal, income-generating venture. The Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) Program, allows Californians to cook and sell meals and drinks directly from their own kitchens.
MEHKO permits cover a wide range of food items, from baked goods and sandwiches to prepared meals, while excluding high-risk items like raw milk or uncooked seafood. Home kitchens operating under this law are subject to health inspections and must comply with safety regulations, ensuring that the food prepared meets state standards.
How to apply to the MEHKO Program
Applicants must submit a permit application through their local county’s Department of Public Health (DPH) and Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO). After that, they’ll need to complete a food safety training course, demonstrate that their kitchen meets hygiene standards, and provide details about the types of food they plan to prepare.
The program limits the number of meals that can be sold (30 meals per day or 90 meals per week), and places an annual maximum on sales revenue, which cannot exceed $100,000 gross. Also, depending on the county, certain delivery methods are allowed. Some counties restrict the use of third-party delivery apps to maintain control over food safety and proper handling.
Since its launch in November 2024, Los Angeles County has issued more than 100 MEHKO permits, according to South Pasadenan. This milestone underscores the county’s commitment to providing safe, legal, and accessible opportunities for home-based chefs, enabling them to transform their passion for cooking into legitimate small businesses while contributing to the local food scene.