Interested in operating a small food business from your home kitchen in Imperial County? Here’s a quick look at how to get a Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) permit:
- Submit Application and SOP: Include both a Health Permit Application (opens in a new tab) and your Standard Operating Procedures (opens in a new tab) when applying.
- Food Safety Manager Certificate: You will need to get a food safety manager certification and submit proof of that with your application.
- Review Guidelines and FAQs: Review the Imperial County MEHKO Guidelines (opens in a new tab) and MEHKO FAQs (opens in a new tab) to understand limitations and what is required of you.
Key MEHKO Rules:
- MEHKOs operate from a private home kitchen.
- Food must be prepared, cooked, and served on the same day.
- Food may be delivered, but not sold from a vehicle.
- There are limits on meals, revenue and food types.
- You can only hire one full-time employee not including family or household members.
Important Links:
- MEHKO vs. CFO 2023 (opens in a new tab)
- MEHKO Quick Facts (opens in a new tab)
- Home Kitchen Operation Resources (opens in a new tab)
For additional information, contact DEHQ at <a href=”mailto:FHDMEHKO@sdcounty.ca.gov”>FHDMEHKO@sdcounty.ca.gov</a> or call (858) 505-6900.
This is a quick overview, so be sure to review all linked documents for full compliance.
