Looking to start a food business from your home kitchen in San Diego County? A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) permit is required. Here’s what you need to do:
- Submit Application: Fill out the Health Permit Application (opens in a new tab) and submit it to the county.
- Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOP): Include detailed plans with your application using the Standard Operating Procedures template (opens in a new tab).
- Get Certified: Have at least one owner of the MEHKO obtain a Food Safety Manager Certificate.
- Training Video: Review the County’s MEHKO Program Training Workshop (opens in a new tab).
Important Program Details:
- MEHKOs are home-based food facilities.
- Food must be prepared, cooked, and served the same day.
- There are some limits on the number of meals that can be made, and you can’t sell to wholesale or retail food facilities
Key Links:
- MEHKO Frequently Asked Questions (opens in a new tab)
- MEHKO Quick Facts (opens in a new tab)
- MEHKO Startup Checklist (opens in a new tab)
- Contact: <a href=”mailto:FHDMEHKO@sdcounty.ca.gov”>FHDMEHKO@sdcounty.ca.gov</a> or call (858) 505-6900.
- Sign up for MEHKO updates (opens in a new tab)
This is just a quick start guide. Read through all resources linked for a full understanding of the requirements.
