Selling Food from Home in Florida: Everything You Need to Know
- License Pro
- Dec 18, 2025
- 3 min read
What Is a Cottage Food Operation?
Cottage Food Operations allow you to produce and package food in your primary residence and sell it directly to the end consumer in accordance with Florida’s Cottage Food Law.
Basic Requirements
Primary residence as the place of preparation (no second homes, RVs, or rented kitchens).
Annual gross sales limit: $250,000 (you must be able to document this).
Direct-to-consumer sales: in person, at events, online, or by mail.
No wholesale sales, consignments, or third-party resales allowed.
Storage must take place in the operator’s residence.
What Foods Can Be Sold?
Allowed (Non-potentially hazardous / No time and temperature control required)
Bread, cookies, cakes, candies, popcorn, honey, jams, seasonings, dried herbs, cereals, granolas, vinegars, seed butters, among others.
Not Allowed
TCS products or foods with restricted ingredients, including cream cheese or buttercream frostings, sauces, dehydrated meats, repackaged foods, cooked fruits, CBD products, among others.
Mandatory Labeling Rules
What Must the Label Include?
Product name and list of ingredients (including allergens as required by federal regulations).
Physical address of the home kitchen (no P.O. Box).
A clearly visible statement:“Made in a cottage food operation that is not subject to Florida’s food safety regulations.”
For wedding cakes or other items that are not easily packaged: include all required information on the invoice and provide it with the product (or inside the box, if applicable).
Permitted Sales Channels
Where and How You Can Sell
In person (at home or at a consumer-specific event).
Online (accepting orders and payments via the internet).
By mail (USPS or commercial carriers).
🚫 A third-party company may not pick up or deliver the product to the customer on your behalf.
Compliance and Inspections
Can the State Inspect?
Yes. In the event of a complaint, the State may inspect your operation. Denying access may result in disciplinary action under current law.
Steps to Get Started Successfully
Quick Checklist
Define your product list (confirm they do not require time or temperature control).
Prepare your residential kitchen and designate storage space.
Create compliant labels, including the required statement.
Set up your sales channels (direct, online, mail order).
Track and document sales to demonstrate compliance with the annual cap.
Train yourself on allergens, invoicing, and good practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a state license or permit?No. Cottage Food Operations do not require a state license or routine inspections, as long as you comply with the Cottage Food Law.
Can I sell to restaurants or stores?No. The law only allows direct sales to the end consumer (no wholesale or consignment).
Can I use a rented commercial kitchen?No. Production must take place exclusively in your primary residence.
Do I have to include my real address on the label?Yes. A physical address is required for traceability in case of a recall or complaint.
What happens if I exceed $250,000 in sales?If you exceed the limit, you no longer qualify as a Cottage Food Operation and must transition to a licensed model with different regulatory requirements.
Expert Guidance for “Selling Food from Home in Florida”
If you want to validate your idea, products, packaging, labels, and sales channels, we can help you meet the requirements and avoid penalties. You’re just one step away from being able to sell food from home in Florida. Contact us.
License Pro | Orlando, FL📞 407-448-9183 | ✉️ info@thelicensepro.com
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