Health & Human services

BUREAU OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

MICROENTERPRISE HOME KITCHEN OPERATION

Assembly Bill 626 (AB 626), also known as the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKO) Act, is a California law enacted in 2018 that allows individuals to prepare and sell meals directly from their home kitchens. The law provides a legal framework for small-scale, home-based food businesses, offering a pathway for aspiring entrepreneurs to enter the food industry with lower startup costs.

Under AB 626, a MEHKO is considered a small retail food facility, and it must comply with specific health and safety requirements, such as food handler certifications, local permitting, and sanitation standards. The law limits the scope of operations, including annual gross sales and number of meals prepared. Read More.

Project Timeline

June 12, 2024 - The City Council approved the department recommendation to accept the grant and conduct a feasibility study for MEHKO the period of June 30,2024 through May 31, 2025. Presentation

December 10, 2024 - The City Council approved the city manager to work with the department on presentation regarding MEHKO and report back within 90 days.

January 30, 2025 - The Department issued a press release to seek community input on the feasibility of MEHKO in the city. Community members are invited to complete an online survey, available now through Friday, February 28 to share their input, considerations, and any concerns.

February 28, 2025 - The online survey in English, Spanish, Tagalog, and Khmer closed as of this date. 

March 13, 2025 - City departments convened to discuss the program feasibility. Representatives from the City Manager, City Attorney, Community Development, Financial Management, Fire Department, Police Department, and Utilities were in attendance. The meeting was facilitated by the Department of Health and Human Services.

May 1, 2025 - Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) Community Meeting.   

May 21, 2025 - MEHKO Community Meeting: Hosted a virtual MEHKO Community Meeting with advocates and interested individuals to share information about MEHKO and answer questions.

May 31, 2025 - Set up a public outreach table at the Home Improvement Expo event, providing informational materials on MEHKO. 

June 10, 2025 - Delivered a presentation on MEHKO at the Council meeting, where the Council approved for the City Attorney’s Office to draft MEHKO ordinance.