San Francisco supervisor introduces plan for home-based food businesses

San Francisco Supervisor Jackie Fielder has introduced an ordinance that would allow residents to operate Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKOs). This legislation would permit individuals to cook and sell meals directly from their home kitchens, providing a legal and more affordable alternative to renting expensive certified commissary kitchens.

The proposal aims to support street vendors and small entrepreneurs who have expressed concern that recent city health regulations could force them out of business due to high equipment and rental costs. By adopting the MEHKO model, which is already utilized in several California jurisdictions including Berkeley and Long Beach, vendors could instead certify their home kitchens through annual inspections and food-handling training.

The ordinance, enabled by California Assembly Bill 626, will undergo a 30-day period before being assigned to a committee for a vote.