Cottage Food Laws in New Jersey

New Jersey was the last state to legalize cottage food sales (2021). A state permit and food safety certification are required, sales are capped at $50,000/year, and online orders must be handed over in person — no shipping.

Overview

New Jersey was the last state to legalize cottage food sales (2021). A state permit and food safety certification are required, sales are capped at $50,000/year, and online orders must be handed over in person — no shipping.

Last verified: July 30, 2026 Official source: New Jersey Department of Health ↗

What Foods Can I Sell?

Allowed

  • Cookies, brownies, and bars
  • Cakes and cupcakes (no cream, custard, or perishable fillings)
  • Quick breads and yeast breads
  • Pies and pastries (fruit-based, not cream or custard)
  • Candy, fudge, and confections
  • Granola, cereals, and dry snack mixes
  • Dry baking mixes and dry herb/spice blends
  • Jams, jellies, and fruit butters
  • Honey and roasted coffee or dry tea

Not Allowed

  • Foods that require refrigeration to be safe (cream pies, cheesecakes, custards)
  • Meat, poultry, or seafood products
  • Most dairy products, including soft cheeses
  • Canned low-acid vegetables
  • Alcohol-infused products
  • Any food that needs time/temperature control for safety (TCS foods)

Where Can I Sell?

✓ Direct to Consumers
✓ Farmers Markets
✓ Online Orders
✓ Pickup
✕ Delivery
✓ Events

Revenue Limits

Annual Sales Limit
$50,000 per year

Permits and Licensing

Required Permits

A New Jersey Cottage Food Operator Permit (about $100, renewed every 2 years) is required.

Food Handler Requirements

Food safety manager certification is required (renewed every 5 years).

Business License

A local business license may be required.

Kitchen Inspection

Not required — permit holders are exempt from routine inspection.

Labeling Requirements

  1. Product name
  2. Ingredient list, in descending order by weight
  3. Major allergens
  4. Business name and address
  5. Cottage Food Operator permit number
  6. Date made
  7. Required disclosure statement: "This food is prepared pursuant to N.J.A.C. 8:24-11 in a home kitchen that has not been inspected by the Department of Health"

Not legal advice — label wording and requirements can change. Do your own research with New Jersey Department of Health before printing labels.

Starting Your Bakery Checklist

Legal disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Cottage food laws change frequently. Always verify requirements with your state's official government resources.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell baked goods from home in New Jersey?

Yes. New Jersey allows home bakers to sell approved homemade goods directly to consumers under its cottage food rules. New Jersey was the last state to legalize cottage food sales (2021). A state permit and food safety certification are required, sales are capped at $50,000/year, and online orders must be handed over in person — no shipping.

What foods can I sell under cottage food laws in New Jersey?

Typically allowed items include Cookies, brownies, and bars, Cakes and cupcakes (no cream, custard, or perishable fillings), Quick breads and yeast breads, Pies and pastries (fruit-based, not cream or custard), Candy, fudge, and confections, and similar non-perishable homemade goods. Foods that require refrigeration, such as cream pies and cheesecakes, are generally not allowed. Always confirm the current list with New Jersey Department of Health.

Do I need a permit to sell homemade cakes in New Jersey?

A New Jersey Cottage Food Operator Permit (about $100, renewed every 2 years) is required.

How much can a home bakery make in New Jersey?

New Jersey's cottage food annual sales limit is: $50,000 per year.

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