Cottage Food Laws in New York (2026)
Complete guide to New York's cottage food laws: No explicit annual cap (considered "not potentially hazardous" food exemption) annual limit, registration required, and in-person sales only.
New York uses a "home processor" exemption rather than explicit cottage food law. Rules are more restrictive than states like Texas and Florida. Online sales are generally not permitted.
Quick Facts for New York
Annual Sales Limit
No explicit annual cap (considered "not potentially hazardous" food exemption)
Registration/Permit
Required — Must register with your county health department. No state-level permit required.
Kitchen Inspection
No inspection required
Food Handler Certification
Not required
Online Sales
No — in-person sales only
Governing Agency
What You Can Sell in New York
Allowed Products
- Baked goods without cream/custard filling
- Candy and confections
- Jams, jellies, and preserves
- Dried herbs
- Fruit pies
- Cookies and brownies
Not Allowed
- Foods requiring refrigeration
- Cream/custard-filled items
- Meat and dairy
- Canned low-acid foods
- Fermented foods
Where You Can Sell in New York
Labeling Requirements in New York
Every product you sell must include these on the label:
How to Start a Cottage Food Business in New York
Verify your products are allowed
New York allows specific non-potentially-hazardous foods. See the allowed products list above. If your product isn't listed, check with New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Consider food safety training (optional)
New York 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 your county health department. No state-level permit required.
Set up proper labeling
New York 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 New York. Track your sales to stay within the No explicit annual cap (considered "not potentially hazardous" food exemption) annual limit.
Need more help?
Ask our AI assistant about New York'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 New York's department of agriculture or health department before starting a cottage food business.