Overview
A Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) is a food facility that is operated by a resident in a private home where food is stored, handled, and prepared to be served to consumers.
What Is a MEHKO?
Benefits
MEHKOs empower local cooks to turn their kitchens into small businesses, fostering community health, economic opportunity, and culinary diversity across California neighborhoods.
Legal framework
The regulatory framework allows for small-scale food preparation while maintaining safety standards through local health department permits and routine inspections.
California eligibility
Eligibility is determined by local county adoption of the MEHKO program and adherence to state-defined operational limits for home-based kitchen facilities.
California Counties with MEHKO Programs
MEHKO programs are available in multiple California jurisdictions, and availability varies based on local adoption. Always confirm current program availability and permit requirements with the appropriate local environmental health agency.
General MEHKO Permit Requirements
MEHKO permits are issued by the local environmental health agency in California jurisdictions that have authorized a MEHKO program. Requirements and application procedures may vary by jurisdiction.
General California MEHKO permit requirements include:
​
• Submit a MEHKO permit application to the appropriate local environmental health agency.
• Submit the information and standard operating procedures required by the local enforcement agency.
• Complete the applicable food safety certification requirements.
• Allow the local enforcement agency to conduct the required initial inspection of the home kitchen.
• Obtain the MEHKO permit before operating the home kitchen as a MEHKO.
• Maintain and update the permit as required by the issuing local enforcement agency.
​
Local requirements may vary. Prospective operators should always confirm current application, inspection, training, fees, and other permit requirements directly with their local environmental health agency.
Key MEHKO Operating Requirements
Licensed MEHKOs must operate in accordance with California law and the requirements of their local environmental health agency. Requirements may vary by jurisdiction and may change over time.
DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER OPERATIONS
MEHKOs operate under rules governing direct food service to consumers.
FOOD SAFETY
Operators must comply with applicable food safety, sanitation, food handling, and training requirements.
OPERATING LIMITS
MEHKOs are subject to applicable operating limits, including meal and gross annual sales limits established under California law.
LOCAL REQUIREMENTS
Local environmental health agencies may establish application procedures and other requirements consistent with California law.
PERMIT COMPLIANCE
Operators are responsible for maintaining a valid MEHKO permit and complying with the requirements applicable to their operation.
Potential MEHKO Licensing Costs
Permit Fees
Permit fees vary by jurisdiction and may include application, review, inspection, or other locally established fees.
Food Safety Training
Operators may incur costs associated with food safety training or certification required by applicable law or their local environmental health agency.
Insurance and Business Expenses
Operators may choose or be required to maintain insurance or incur other business-related expenses depending on applicable requirements and their individual circumstances.
Equipment and Home Improvements
Additional costs may include equipment, supplies, storage, sanitation materials, or home improvements needed to meet applicable requirements.
Actual costs vary by jurisdiction and individual circumstances. Information provided here is educational only and does not replace guidance from your local environmental health agency.
Common MEHKO Inquiries
Where do I apply for a MEHKO permit?
MEHKO permits are issued through the appropriate local environmental health agency in jurisdictions that have authorized MEHKO programs. Contact your local agency for current application procedures and requirements.
Are MEHKO programs available everywhere in California?
No. MEHKO availability depends on local adoption. Contact the appropriate local environmental health agency to confirm whether a MEHKO program is currently available in your jurisdiction.
Does HomeTable issue MEHKO permits?
No. HomeTable intends to operate as an Internet Food Service Intermediary (IFSI) in accordance with applicable California law and does not issue MEHKO permits. Permitting and regulatory oversight are handled by the appropriate governmental authorities.
Do I need a MEHKO permit before joining HomeTable?
HomeTable requires kitchen operators to submit their MEHKO permit information and documentation as part of the HomeTable Membership Application. HomeTable manually reviews the submitted documentation before approving a kitchen for publication.
Resources & Official Links
Always consult official California and local government resources for the most current MEHKO requirements. Reference these portals for legal process details and health department contacts.