Connecticut Department of Agriculture

Establishing a Farmers' Market in Connecticut 
 
Below are some resources and things to consider when looking to establish a farmers' market in Connecticut.
 
 
Farmers Market Reference Guide:  The purpose of this guide is to provide assistance to those who want to start a new market, expand an existing market, or participate in selling of goods. This comprehensive guide offers:
·        Reviews of commonly statutes and regulations associated with products commonly offered for sale at farmers markets ·        Contact information for state agencies that regulate products and practices at farmers markets

·        Description of Supplemental Food Programs Available to farmers markets

·        Guidance to those wishing to start a farmers market

All participants or organizers are encouraged to review this guide. This guide can be found on our Publications page or by clicking here: Farmers' Market Reference Guide. 

Definition of a Certified Farmers' Market: Connecticut Farmers' Markets that only allow the sale of CT Grown farm products have the option of being identified as a “Certified Farmers' Market”. Being a certified farmers' market allows the market to:

·        Be included in DoAg’s farmers market brochure

·        Offer the very popular and successful Farmers' Market Nutrition Program

·        Be listed as certified farmers' market

·        Allows participating farmers' kiosk at the market to be considered an extension of their farm allowing the sales of some items exempt from certain inspection programs

  

Non Certified Farmers' Markets:  Non-certified farmers' market are farmers' markets located in Connecticut that allow out of state farmers to participate and/or allow the sale of non-CT Grown farm products.