Before you sell a single cookie legally, you need to understand cottage food law in your state. The rules vary wildly — what's allowed in Texas may be prohibited in New Jersey.
What is cottage food?
Cottage food laws let home bakers produce certain low-risk foods in a home kitchen and sell directly to consumers — without a commercial license in many states.
Typically allowed: baked goods without cream filling, cookies, breads, jams, and dry mixes. Often restricted: cheesecakes with dairy frosting, meat products, and anything requiring refrigeration.
Find your state rules
Search '[your state] cottage food law' or check your state agriculture department website. Look for: allowed products, revenue caps, labeling requirements, and whether you need a permit or kitchen inspection.
Some states require a food handler certificate. Others only need you to register once online.
- Annual sales limits vary from $25,000 to unlimited depending on state.
- Labeling usually requires ingredients, allergens, your business name, and 'made in a home kitchen' language.
- Wholesale (selling to cafes) often has different rules than direct-to-consumer.
Stay compliant as you grow
Keep copies of permits and renew on time. If you hit revenue caps, you may need to upgrade to a commercial kitchen.
Document your recipes and ingredient sources — inspectors and customers alike appreciate transparency.
