Complete guide to Massachusetts's cottage food laws: No limit annual limit, registration required, and in-person sales only.
Massachusetts has no sales cap but requires a local board of health permit and inspection. Rules vary significantly by municipality — always check with your local board of health. Labeling and other requirements may differ from town to town.
Annual Sales Limit
No limit
Registration/Permit
Required — Must obtain a Retail Residential Kitchen permit from your local board of health. Annual permit fee typically $50-$100. Each municipality handles permitting independently.
Kitchen Inspection
Yes — inspection required
Food Handler Certification
Not required
Online Sales
No — in-person sales only
Legislation: 105 CMR 590.000 (State Sanitary Code, Chapter X — Minimum Sanitation Standards for Food Establishments)
Every product you sell must include these on the label:
Massachusetts allows specific non-potentially-hazardous foods. See the allowed products list above. If your product isn't listed, check with Massachusetts Department of Public Health (state) + Local Boards of Health (permitting).
Massachusetts does not require food handler certification, but taking one builds customer trust and helps you follow best practices.
Must obtain a Retail Residential Kitchen permit from your local board of health. Annual permit fee typically $50-$100. Each municipality handles permitting independently.
Massachusetts requires specific label elements on every product. See the labeling requirements section above for the exact list.
Begin selling at approved venues in Massachusetts. Track your sales to stay within the No limit annual limit.
Ask our AI assistant about Massachusetts'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 Massachusetts's department of agriculture or health department before starting a cottage food business.