Food Program

Overview April 26, 2016

Food Program

IMPORTANT: Environmental Health Services is transitioning to an online portal in 2024 to streamline the process of managing permits and billing. If you did not already respond to the postcard mailer or email that went out in November and December, please review the email (click here) for further instructions. It is critical that we collect contact information to designate someone as a primary user who will be responsible for managing your business’ online account.

IMPORTANT UPDATES:

All existing and new food facilities applying for a health permit may be required to comply with San Mateo County’s Disposable Food Service Ware Ordinance. For more information and free technical assistance, visit smcsustainability.org/waste-reduction/foodware.

As of January 2022, state law (SB 1383) requires large food generating entities to hold a contract or written agreement with a food recovery organization for the recovery of their surplus food for redistribution to those in need in the community. For more information, visit smcsustainability.org/ediblefoodrecovery.

Applications

Overview December 30, 2016

Applications

New Food Business Application
Plan Check Application
Change of Ownership Application
Tobacco Sales Permit Application

Microkitchens (MEHKO)

Overview September 25, 2019

Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKO)

As of January 1, 2019, AB 626, known as the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations Act, became law. This law authorizes San Mateo County to permit home kitchens for retail use.

Certified Farmers' Markets

Overview December 30, 2016

Certified Farmers’ Markets

A Certified Farmers’ Market (CFM) allows certified producers to sell their agriculture products directly to consumers. A CFM may only be operated by one or more certified producers, by a nonprofit organization, or by a local government agency. Both the market and the certified producers must be certified by the State of California through the County Agricultural Commissioner. There are currently 19 CFMs that operate in the County of San Mateo and each market is permitted and inspected by San Mateo County Environmental Health Services.

Cottage Food Operations

Overview December 30, 2016

Cottage Food Operations

Effective January 1, 2013, the Cottage Food Law allows the production of certain low-risk foods in home kitchens to be sold directly and/or indirectly to the public.

Cottage Food Operators may:

Food Facility Plan Check Process

Overview April 27, 2016

Food Facility Plan Check Process

The Food Facility Plan Check program reviews plans for all new and remodeled facilities to ensure they support public health and safety, and comply with local and state health codes. Plans must be received and approved before any construction or remodeling takes place.