Cottage Food Laws in Colorado (2026)
Complete guide to Colorado's cottage food laws: $90,000 per year annual limit, registration required, and online sales allowed.
Colorado recently raised the limit to $90K. Online sales allowed since 2021.
Quick Facts for Colorado
Annual Sales Limit
$90,000 per year
Registration/Permit
Required — Register with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
Kitchen Inspection
No inspection required
Food Handler Certification
Not required
Online Sales
Yes — online ordering allowed
Governing Agency
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE)
Legislation: Colorado Cottage Foods Act
What You Can Sell in Colorado
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Candy
- Jams and jellies
- Dried herbs
- Honey
- Fruit pies
- Popcorn
- Granola
Not Allowed
- Time/temperature controlled foods
- Meat and dairy
- Canned goods
- Fermented foods
Where You Can Sell in Colorado
Labeling Requirements in Colorado
Every product you sell must include these on the label:
How to Start a Cottage Food Business in Colorado
Verify your products are allowed
Colorado allows specific non-potentially-hazardous foods. See the allowed products list above. If your product isn't listed, check with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
Consider food safety training (optional)
Colorado does not require food handler certification, but taking one builds customer trust and helps you follow best practices.
Register with your state
Register with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
Set up proper labeling
Colorado requires specific label elements on every product. See the labeling requirements section above for the exact list.
Start selling
Begin selling at approved venues in Colorado. Track your sales to stay within the $90,000 per year annual limit.
Need more help?
Ask our AI assistant about Colorado's specific cottage food requirements, labeling rules, and selling venues.
Chat with AI AssistantCottage food laws change frequently. This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify current requirements with Colorado's department of agriculture or health department before starting a cottage food business.