AMIGOSAFE

Compliance Made Simple: What You Really Need to Run a Legal Kitchen in California

Running a kitchen with heart and flavor is just part of the job. To stay open and grow with peace of mind, you need to be compliant with California law. 

No te preocupes—AmigoSafe is here to break it all down. You will be up and running en menos que canta un gallo!

✅ 1. Food Handler Cards for All Employees

Tarjetas de manipulador de alimentos.
Everyone who touches food must have a valid California Food Handler Card/Certificate.

  • Must be issued by an ANSI-accredited provider.
  • Workers have 30 days after hire to get certified.
  • Must be renewed every 3 years.
  • Keep a copy on file for health inspections. 


📝Pro Tip: Keep copies near your clock-in station or employee file folder. 

✅ 2. One Certified Food Manager

Un Gerente de Alimentos Certificado.
California requires at least one person in charge to be certified:

  • Pass an ANSI-CFP approved exam.
  • Keep the certificate on-site.
  • Applies even if it’s a small or family-run taquería.


📝Pro Tip: Inspectors will ask to see this. No lo dejes para después.

✅ 3. Seller's Permit and Business License

Permiso de Venta y Licencia Comercial

You need two different documents. 
  • A Seller's Permit from the CDTFA (for collecting tax).
  • A Business License from your city or county. 


📝Pro Tip: If you're expanding or moving locations, you may need to reapply.

✅ 4. Health Department Permit

Permiso del Departamento de Salud
Issued by your county's Environmental Health Department:
 
  • Required before you open.
  • You must pass an initial inspection.
  • If you're building or remodeling, you may need to get a Plan check approval first.  


📝Pro Tip: You may also be subject to routine surprise inspections. Así que, mucho ojo.

✅ 5. Fire Department Inspection

Inspección del Departamento de Bomberos
La seguridad es primero. The most important areas they will look at are: 

  • Hood suppression system certified.
  • Fire extinguishers maintained.
  • Establishing occupancy limits.
  • Ensure all entrances and exits are unobstructed.
  • Grease traps and vents up to code.


📝Pro Tip: Contact your Fire Marshall ahead of time to gather info about all requirements. Para que no te agarren de sorpresa. 

✅ 6. Alcohol License (if selling alcohol)

Licencia de servicio de alcohol (si vendes bebidas alcohólicas)

If you plan to sell beer, wine, o unos buenos caballitos de tequila: 

  • Apply for a license through the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).
  • Make sure to post a public notice during the application.
  • Ensure all your empleados complete Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Training.

✅ 7. Labor Posters & Employee Documentation

Pósters obligatorios y documentos del personal
California labor laws require:

  • Workplace posters in English and Spanish. You can download and print most of them by visiting the CA Department of Industrial Relations. 
  • Records for I-9s, wages, paid sick leave, and schedules.
  • Training on food safety and sexual harassment prevention.


📝Pro Tip:  Keep all documents in one binder or digital file for quick access during inspections. 

Keep in Mind...

Specific counties and cities often have their own requirements, which may not be covered in the list above. Simply visit CalGOLD and select the city and county where your business will be located. You will see a comprehensive list of all permits, licenses, and approvals you need. 
Write your awesome label here.

Ready to Open with Confidence? Download la Guía Gratis! 

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