The farmers market where I want to sell my products says I need a food license, even though I am a cottage food business. Can the market require a license?
Yes. Even though an entity may meet the requirements of a cottage food operation and have a license, some farmers markets or other direct marketing venues may require vendors to have a food establishment license or to meet other requirements.
Can I serve free samples of my cottage food products?
Yes, subject to local health department approval.
Is there a maximum sales limit for cottage food producers?
Yes, there is a yearly gross sales limit of $50,000. You must maintain records of all sales.
Can I sell my cottage food to a wholesaler, broker, or distributor?
No. It is not legal for a cottage food operator to sell to a wholesaler, broker or distributor who would then resell the product. Cottage food may only be sold directly to consumers.
Can I sell my cottage food online?
You may advertise and take orders for your product online. However, you must directly deliver such products to consumers, and you may only deliver products within the State of Connecticut.
Sales and product delivery must be directly from the producer or designee to the consumer, in a person-to-person transaction. Products may not be delivered by mail or by other third-party delivery services such as UPS or FedEx, or by mobile food ordering companies.
Can I advertise my cottage food business in the newspaper or at trade shows?
Yes. Advertising is allowed. However, the actual sale must be made in person.
Am I allowed to make cottage food products in an outbuilding on my property, such as a shed or barn?
No. Cottage food products must be made in the licensed kitchen in your home and stored in the permitted area of your home.
Can I place my cottage food products in a store or restaurant on consignment?
No. Cottage food products may not be sold wholesale or on consignment. Cottage food products may not be sold at grocery stores, restaurants, long-term care facilities, group homes, day care facilities, or schools.The sale must be person-to-person, from the producer or designee to the actual consumer.
Can nonprofit organizations produce and sell cottage food?
No. Nonprofits do not have a private residential dwelling and, therefore, do not qualify as a cottage food business.
Do I need to have a “Doing Business As” (DBA)?
A DBA may be a requirement of your local municipality or the Secretary of the State depending on how your business is organized. You are advised to check requirements with your municipal officials.
To learn more about navigating this process, please visit The Secretary of State’s Business Start Up Tool
