How to Open a Bakery in California

Step 1: Name your bakery in California

Choosing the perfect name for your bakery is an exciting first step. When naming your business in California, it’s important to adhere to specific requirements for LLCs and corporations.

For LLCs, the name of your bakery must include one of the following designators: “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” For corporations, The name of your bakery should include a corporate designator such as “Corporation,” “Corp,” or “Inc.” No matter what kind of entity you create, your name should be distinguishable from other registered businesses in the state. You can check the availability of your desired name on the California Secretary of State’s website.

Remember, a distinctive and memorable name can leave a lasting impression on your customers and help your bakery stand out in the competitive California market. Want more inspiration? Take a look at our bakery names page.

Step 2: Develop a bakery business plan

Crafting a solid business plan is essential for the success of your bakery. It acts as a roadmap, outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. Key components of a business plan include the executive summary, company description, market analysis, organization and management, menu, marketing plan, funding, and financial projections. A well-crafted business plan will not only guide your bakery’s growth and avoid mistakes, but also help you secure financing if needed.

Step 3: Choose a business entity type

When starting a bakery in California, it’s important to choose the right business entity type that aligns with your goals, liability concerns, and long-term plans. Here are the main entity types to consider:

• Sole Proprietorship: A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most common business structure. It offers complete control and easy setup, but it also means that you and your business are legally considered the same entity. This structure lacks personal liability protection, meaning your personal assets could be at risk if any legal issues arise.
• Partnership: A general partnership involves two or more individuals who share ownership, responsibility, and profits. This entity type allows for shared decision-making and resources, but it also means that partners share personal liability for the business’s debts and legal obligations.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC provides the benefits of both a corporation and a partnership. It offers personal liability protection, meaning your personal assets are typically separate from the business’s liabilities. It also provides flexibility in management and tax treatment. An LLC requires less formalities than a corporation but still offers credibility and professionalism.
• Corporation: A corporation is a separate legal entity from its owners (shareholders). It offers strong personal liability protection, meaning the shareholders’ personal assets are generally shielded from business liabilities. However, corporations require more complex formation and ongoing compliance requirements, such as holding regular meetings, keeping detailed records, and filing annual reports.

Each business entity type has its advantages and disadvantages. Sole proprietorships and partnerships are simpler to set up and have fewer compliance requirements, but they lack personal liability protection. LLCs and corporations provide personal liability protection, but they have more formalities and may involve additional costs.

When deciding on the best entity type for your bakery, consider factors such as your risk tolerance, long-term goals, growth plans, taxation considerations, and the level of personal liability protection you desire. Consulting with a legal or tax professional can provide valuable guidance in selecting the most suitable entity type for your specific bakery business.

Step 4: Find a location in California

Finding the perfect location for your bakery is vital for attracting customers. Consider factors such as foot traffic, parking availability, and proximity to your target market. Additionally, ensure compliance with local zoning laws and regulations. Carefully scout potential locations that align with your bakery’s vision and target audience.

Step 5: Get California bakery business licenses and permits

Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is a critical step in opening a bakery in California. The specific requirements may vary depending on whether you have a home-based bakery or a brick-and-mortar establishment. Let’s explore the licenses and permits you may need for each type:

Home-Based Bakeries

Operating a home-based bakery is an attractive option for those who want to start a bakery business with less initial investment compared to a traditional brick-and-mortar set up. If you plan to operate your bakery from your home kitchen in California, you will need to secure a Cottage Food Operations (CFO) permit.

A CFO permit allows home bakers to prepare, package, and sell specific “non-potentially hazardous” foods directly to consumers. The term “non-potentially hazardous” refers to foods that don’t require refrigeration to prevent foodborne illnesses. This includes items such as bread, cookies, pastries, jams, jellies, and more.

The CFO permit is divided into two classes. Class A permits allow you to sell directly from your home, farmers’ markets, and community events. Class B permits allow for both direct and indirect sales, which means you can also sell your products through local shops, restaurants, and other third-party retailers.

One thing to note is that you need to meet specific home kitchen criteria to get approved for a CFO permit. This includes ensuring your home kitchen is clean and properly equipped for baking, and meeting all food safety and sanitation standards.

However, even if you have a CFO permit, there are restrictions on the types of products you can sell. Your baked goods cannot contain cream, custard, or meat fillings, which are considered potentially hazardous. You also cannot sell baked goods that require refrigeration.

In addition to the restrictions on the types of products you can sell, California imposes an annual gross sales limit for home-based bakeries. As of 2022, Class A CFO permit holders cannot have gross annual sales of more than $75,000, while Class B CFO permit holders are limited to gross annual sales of $150,000 or less.

Brick-and-Mortar Bakeries

Operating a brick-and-mortar bakery in California can offer an advantage of providing customers with an immersive sensory experience and allowing them to connect with your brand on a deeper level. However, this type of operation also demands certain considerations and specific licenses and permits, which are often more complex than those required for home-based bakeries.

Let’s take a look at some of the key requirements and considerations:

• Food Service Establishment Permit: This permit, obtained from your local health department or county’s Environmental Health Services, is required for all commercial food establishments, including brick-and-mortar bakeries. It ensures your business is in compliance with health and safety regulations, and often requires regular inspections.

• Zoning and Land Use Permits: Depending on your bakery’s location, you may need to obtain zoning and land use permits. These permits ensure your business is in compliance with local ordinances related to how the property can be used. Some cities or counties have specific zoning laws for businesses that manufacture food products. You can obtain these permits from your city or county planning department.

• Health Permits: In addition to the Food Service Establishment Permit, you may need additional health permits. For instance, a Food Handler’s Permit is required in some localities to demonstrate that you and your employees have undergone proper food safety training. Other possible health-related permits may include a permit for managing food waste or dealing with grease disposal, especially if your bakery uses large amounts of butter or other fats.

• Building and Fire Safety Compliance: Depending on the age and location of your building, as well as the specific modifications you make to accommodate your bakery, you may need to demonstrate compliance with local building and fire codes. These can include providing sufficient exits, adhering to guidelines on the placement and type of fire extinguishers, and ensuring your electrical wiring and equipment meet safety standards.

• Business License: Most cities or counties in California require businesses to obtain a business license to operate legally. The specifics vary by location, so you’ll need to check with your local city or county clerk’s office for details.

• Alcoholic Beverage License: If you plan to sell beverages containing alcohol at your bakery, you’ll need to apply for a license from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.

• Seller’s Permit: If you are selling goods in California, whether wholesale or retail, you are required to hold a Seller’s Permit. This permit is issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).

• Signage Permit: Some cities require businesses to obtain a permit before installing signage. Check with your local government to determine if you need a signage permit.

• Environmental Permits: Depending on your bakery’s operations and waste output, you may need various environmental permits. For instance, if your bakery disposes of a high volume of food waste or produces substantial waste water, you might require specific permits.

It’s crucial to understand that requirements can vary by city and county. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to reach out to your local county health department or relevant regulatory agency to determine the exact permits and licenses required for your specific location. You can consult a legal or business professional to help you navigate these regulations and ensure your bakery is compliant. Our business licensing report can also help you easily learn what licenses you’ll need to operate legally and safely.

Remember, these licenses and permits are not just a one-time requirement. Most of them require renewals, often annually, and some will require regular inspections. Ensure you’re keeping track of renewal dates and inspection schedules to avoid lapses and potential penalties.

Step 6: Register for taxes in California

To ensure compliance with tax regulations, you’ll need to register for an employer identification number (EIN) and other state and local taxes. In California, this includes registering for franchise taxes, sales taxes, and so on. Be sure to tackle these registrations ahead of time so you know what to expect in advance.

Step 7: Plan your financials

There are a lot of aspects to planning your finances for a California bakery. Here are some of the most common aspects to consider.

Determine your baked goods pricing

Setting the right prices for your baked goods is crucial for profitability. Consider factors such as ingredient costs, overhead expenses (see below), competition, and desired profit margins. Conduct market research to understand the pricing range for similar bakery products in your area. By striking a balance between affordability and value, you can attract customers while ensuring your bakery remains financially sustainable.

Exploring various pricing models can help you determine the most effective strategy for your bakery. Some common pricing models include:

• Cost-Plus Pricing: Calculate the total cost of producing each baked good, including ingredients, labor, and overhead, and add a desired profit margin.
• Competitive Pricing: Analyze the pricing of your competitors and set your prices accordingly. Consider the quality and uniqueness of your products when positioning them in the market.
• Value-Based Pricing: Set prices based on the perceived value of your baked goods. Factors such as high-quality ingredients, artisanal techniques, or unique flavors can justify a higher price point.

These are just a few pricing models. You can learn about others on our pricing strategies page.

Calculate your bakery startup costs

Before opening your bakery, it’s crucial to estimate and plan for the initial bakery startup costs. These may include:

• Equipment and supplies: Account for the cost of ovens, mixers, refrigeration units, baking pans, utensils, packaging materials, flour mill, and other necessary equipment. Don’t forget to include the cost of initial inventory, such as flour, sugar, butter, and other baking ingredients.
• Renovation and leasehold improvements: If you’re setting up a brick-and-mortar bakery, factor in costs for any necessary renovations or leasehold improvements to create a functional and appealing space.
• Licenses and permits: Consider the fees associated with obtaining the required licenses and permits discussed in Step 5.
• Marketing and advertising: Allocate a budget for promoting your bakery’s grand opening and ongoing marketing efforts, such as signage, print materials, website development, and digital marketing campaigns.

Analyze your bakery costs and find the break-even point with our break-even calculator.

Open a business bank account

Separating your personal and business finances is essential for accurate bookkeeping and financial management. Open a business bank account to handle all bakery-related transactions. This will streamline your accounting processes, simplify tax reporting, and ensure a clear distinction between personal and business expenses.

Set up accounting systems

Establishing sound accounting systems will help you keep track of your bakery’s financial health. Consider using accounting software or hiring a professional accountant to manage your financial records, track expenses, generate reports, and handle tax obligations accurately.

By carefully planning your financials and considering all the costs involved, you can set your bakery on the path to success. Remember to revisit and adjust your pricing periodically to account for changes in ingredient costs, market demand, and other factors affecting profitability.

Step 8: Fund your California bakery

Securing funding for your bakery may be necessary to cover startup costs, equipment purchases, and other essential expenses. Explore various funding options such as small business loans, working capital loans, crowdfunding, personal savings, or small business grants. 

Keep in mind that these financial decisions can impact your liability protections, as many banks require personal guarantees for loans. You might also decide to bring in a partner, which will require you to collaborate, write an operating agreement or partnership agreement, and more.

Step 9: Get insurance

Protecting your bakery with the right insurance coverage is crucial. Consider policies such as general liability insurance, property insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance. Adequate insurance coverage provides peace of mind and safeguards your bakery against unexpected events.

Step 10: Find bakery suppliers and negotiate prices

Establishing relationships with reliable bakery suppliers is essential for sourcing high-quality ingredients and equipment. Conduct thorough research, compare prices, and negotiate favorable terms.

Step 11: Create your brand and atmosphere

Building a strong brand and creating a welcoming atmosphere are vital for attracting customers and fostering loyalty. Develop a unique brand identity, including a memorable logo, appealing packaging, and consistent messaging. Craft an inviting ambiance within your bakery that reflects your brand’s values and resonates with your target audience.

Some businesses might find it helpful to hire an interior designer to create a beautiful space, but it’s possible to handle these tasks yourself, too.

Step 12: Implement marketing and advertising

Effective marketing and advertising strategies are key to driving awareness and attracting customers to your bakery. Utilize both online and offline channels, such as social media, local publications, community events, and partnerships.

For some small businesses, free tools like a business account on social media channels is a great starting point. Other businesses might even hire a marketer to create a full campaign.

How to Open a Bakery in Other States

Thinking about starting a bakery? Learn how to open your own bakery with these step-by-step business guides specifically written for your state’s requirements.

• How to Start a Bakery in Florida
• How to Open a Bakery in Illinois
• How to Start a Bakery in New York
• How to Open a Bakery in Texas
• How to Open a Bakery in Virginia
• How to Open a Bakery in Pennsylvania