Bill > SB5605

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for microenterprise home kitchen operations (MHKOs), which are food businesses operated out of a person's primary residence. The bill defines MHKOs as home-based food preparation businesses with specific operational limitations, including selling no more than 30 individual meals per day and 90 meals per week. Operators must obtain a permit from the local health jurisdiction, submit detailed standard operating procedures, and comply with food safety requirements. Key restrictions include preparing food only in designated kitchen areas, avoiding food preparation during other household activities, and ensuring that only trained and permitted individuals handle food. The bill exempts MHKOs from certain standard food service regulations while maintaining basic hygiene and safety standards. Local health jurisdictions can inspect these operations with reasonable notice, and penalties for non-compliance range from administrative conferences to permit suspension or revocation. The bill also ensures that operating an MHKO is considered a permitted residential use, preventing local governments from imposing additional zoning restrictions. The legislation is set to expire on December 31, 2029, and requires the state department of health to review and report on the program by July 1, 2027.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5605&Year=2025&Initiative=false