Herdshare Programs in California
Herdshare Legal Status in California
California allows retail sales of raw milk with a permit. Organic Pastures and Claravale Farm are major producers.
Herdshare agreements in California are governed by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. A herdshare contract transfers partial ownership of a dairy animal to the consumer, who then receives milk as an owner rather than as a buyer. In California, herdshares are one of several legal options alongside direct farm-gate purchases and retail sales.
California Herdshare Listings
We’re building our California herdshare directory. Know a herdshare program in California? Help us list it for free.
Submit a Herdshare ProgramHow Herdshares Work in California
In a herdshare arrangement, you purchase fractional ownership of a dairy animal (typically a cow or goat). You then pay a regular boarding fee to the farmer who cares for and milks your animal. In return, you receive a regular allocation of fresh raw milk proportional to your ownership share.
Because you legally own a portion of the animal, the milk you receive is not a purchased product — it is your milk. This structure makes herdshares legally permissible in California under contract law.
Raw Milk Farms in California
Browse all raw milk farms and dairies in California, including farm-gate sales options.
Raw Milk Laws in California
Read the complete legal guide for raw milk and herdshares in California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are herdshares legal in California?
Yes. Herdshare programs are permitted in California. California allows retail sales of raw milk with a permit. Organic Pastures and Claravale Farm are major producers.
How do I find a herdshare in California?
Browse our directory above (listings coming soon), ask at local farmers markets, contact California Department of Food and Agriculture, or search for local food buying clubs in your area.