Permits and Licenses
Permits and licenses
At the heart of a thriving business lies the proper adherence to legalities and protection through insurance coverage. Securing the essential permits, licenses, and insurance is a foundational step towards sustainable and compliant operations.
Certificates and Permits
California
Start with the State of California, then the County of Riverside, and your city (below).
Riverside County Environmental Health Permits
Food Handler Certification: According to Riverside County, “all food employees whose place of employment handles food, beverages, or utensils must obtain a Riverside County Food Handler Certificate.” You can study and take the exam online for a fee of $28. Note that you will need this certification even if you rent a commercial kitchen space. Head to this site for all the information
Food Trucks and Mobile Food Facilities (food carts)
Home Based Kitchen Requirements: Visit Riverside County’s page dedicated to Cottage Food Operations and Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation.
Local Farms
You’re a farmer and you want to sell your fruits and vegetables at a local Certified Farmers Market. You must be a Certified Producer with the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Check out this informational bulletin for more on certification and vending requirements
Next, visit www.rivcoawm.org (Click on Forms and scroll down to Certified Farmers Market)
Finally, contact and obtain permission from the manager of the market that you want to participate in. Individual farmers are covered under the market manager’s permit and are not required to obtain a separate permit from the Department of Environmental Health.
City Health Departments:
City health departments oversee food safety, conducting inspections, and issuing vital permits and certifications. They ensure businesses meet hygiene standards, offer guidance, and provide essential resources. Collaborating with them ensures legal compliance and prioritizes customer health, laying a strong foundation for any food-based venture.
Menifee
Starting your business in Menifee
Visit the city’s Business Development page
Murrieta
Starting your business in the City of Murrieta
Special note about Murrieta: Food Rescue and Diversion
Senate Bill 1383 (SB 1383) requires food businesses to divert foods from landfills by donating the maximum amount of edible food they would otherwise dispose of to food recovery organizations. Tier 1 and 2 generators must have written agreements with food recovery organizations and services and keep records of foods donated.
The City of Murrieta offers all its Tier 1 and 2 generators and food recovery organizations access to a regional food rescue network through a partnership with the Western Riverside Council of Governments.
Temecula
Vendor Requirements for the City of Temecula
Winchester or French Valley
Starting your business in Winchester or French Valley
Start with this publication that walks you through starting a business in unincorporated areas of Riverside County. Note that Riverside County does not issue business licenses but requires businesses to register with the Stormwater Compliance Program.
Wildomar
Starting your business in Wildomar
Opening a sidewalk and/or food truck business in Wildomar
Insurance coverage:
- Restaurant Insurance: Tailored coverage safeguarding your establishment against various risks, including property damage, liability claims, and business interruption
- Property Insurance: Protects physical assets, such as buildings and equipment, from unforeseen events like fire, theft, or natural disasters
- General Insurance: Provides broad protection against a range of liabilities, covering potential legal and financial obligations
- Liquor Insurance: Specifically designed to address liabilities associated with the sale and service of alcoholic beverages
- Auto Insurance: Essential coverage for business-owned vehicles, ensuring protection in cases of accidents or damages
- Workers' Compensation Insurance: Mandatory coverage for employee injuries or illnesses sustained during work, providing medical benefits and wage replacement
- Unemployment Insurance: Helps provide temporary income to eligible workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own
- Life Insurance: Offers financial protection to employees' beneficiaries in the event of an employee's death
- Fire Insurance: Protects against damages caused by fires, covering rebuilding costs and loss of income during reconstruction
- Loss of Business Insurance: A safety net against unexpected disruptions that result in loss of revenue or operational capability
- Food Contamination Insurance: Specifically tailored to mitigate financial losses due to food spoilage or contamination incidents
Ensuring compliance with these permits, licenses, and comprehensive insurance coverage not only meets legal requirements but also provides a safety net, shielding your business from various potential risks.