Cottage Food Laws in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania doesn't use a typical "cottage food law" — home producers register as a Limited Food Establishment with no revenue cap, and can even sell online and out of state.

Overview

Pennsylvania doesn't use a typical "cottage food law" — home producers register as a Limited Food Establishment with no revenue cap, and can even sell online and out of state.

Last verified: July 30, 2026 Official source: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture ↗

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
No statewide sales limit

Permits and Licensing

Required Permits

Limited Food Establishment registration (about $35) with a one-time home inspection is required.

Food Handler Requirements

Not always required — check current Department of Agriculture guidance.

Business License

A local business license may be required.

Kitchen Inspection

A one-time inspection is required, with routine follow-up inspections.

Labeling Requirements

  1. Product name
  2. Ingredient list, in descending order by weight
  3. Major allergens
  4. Business name and address
  5. Net weight
  6. Required disclosure statement (10-point type, contrasting color): "This product is homemade and is not prepared in an inspected food establishment."

Not legal advice — label wording and requirements can change. Do your own research with Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture 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 Pennsylvania?

Yes. Pennsylvania allows home bakers to sell approved homemade goods directly to consumers under its cottage food rules. Pennsylvania doesn't use a typical "cottage food law" — home producers register as a Limited Food Establishment with no revenue cap, and can even sell online and out of state.

What foods can I sell under cottage food laws in Pennsylvania?

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 Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

Do I need a permit to sell homemade cakes in Pennsylvania?

Limited Food Establishment registration (about $35) with a one-time home inspection is required.

How much can a home bakery make in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania's cottage food annual sales limit is: No statewide sales limit.

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