Cottage Food Laws in Kentucky (2026)
Complete guide to Kentucky's cottage food laws: $60,000 per year (gross income) annual limit, registration required, and online sales allowed.
Kentucky requires annual registration ($50/year) and draft label review before marketing. $60,000 annual gross income cap. May be subject to annual inspection by the cabinet. Also has separate "Microprocessor" license for higher-volume operations. Online orders accepted but delivery must be in person within Kentucky.
Quick Facts for Kentucky
Annual Sales Limit
$60,000 per year (gross income)
Registration/Permit
Required — Must register with the Kentucky Department for Public Health, Food Safety Branch. Annual registration fee of $50.
Kitchen Inspection
No inspection required
Food Handler Certification
Not required
Online Sales
Yes — online ordering allowed
Legislation: KRS § 217.136 (Home-based food processors)
What You Can Sell in Kentucky
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Candy and confections
- Jams, jellies, and preserves
- Dried herbs and spices
- Honey
- Popcorn and snack mixes
- Other non-potentially hazardous foods that do not require refrigeration
Not Allowed
- Foods requiring refrigeration
- Meat, poultry, seafood
- Dairy products
- Canned low-acid foods
- Any time/temperature control foods
Where You Can Sell in Kentucky
Labeling Requirements in Kentucky
Every product you sell must include these on the label:
How to Start a Cottage Food Business in Kentucky
Verify your products are allowed
Kentucky allows specific non-potentially-hazardous foods. See the allowed products list above. If your product isn't listed, check with Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health, Food Safety Branch.
Consider food safety training (optional)
Kentucky does not require food handler certification, but taking one builds customer trust and helps you follow best practices.
Register with your state
Must register with the Kentucky Department for Public Health, Food Safety Branch. Annual registration fee of $50.
Set up proper labeling
Kentucky 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 Kentucky. Track your sales to stay within the $60,000 per year (gross income) annual limit.
Need more help?
Ask our AI assistant about Kentucky'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 Kentucky's department of agriculture or health department before starting a cottage food business.