Complete guide to Tennessee's cottage food laws: No limit annual limit, no registration required, and online sales allowed.
Tennessee has one of the most permissive food freedom laws in the country. No license, no permit, no inspection, no sales cap, no food handler cert. Allows sale of many perishable foods direct to consumer. Cannot sell through restaurants. Perishable foods cannot be sold wholesale through retail stores.
Annual Sales Limit
No limit
Registration/Permit
No license, permit, registration, or inspection required under the Tennessee Food Freedom Act.
Kitchen Inspection
No inspection required
Food Handler Certification
Not required
Online Sales
Yes — online ordering allowed
Governing Agency
Legislation: Tennessee Food Freedom Act (HB 813 / Public Chapter 862, 2022; amended by HB 130 / SB 484, 2025)
Every product you sell must include these on the label:
Tennessee allows specific non-potentially-hazardous foods. See the allowed products list above. If your product isn't listed, check with Tennessee Department of Agriculture.
Tennessee does not require food handler certification, but taking one builds customer trust and helps you follow best practices.
Tennessee does not require registration, permits, or licenses for cottage food operations. You can start selling immediately.
Tennessee requires specific label elements on every product. See the labeling requirements section above for the exact list.
Begin selling at approved venues in Tennessee. Track your sales to stay within the No limit annual limit.
Ask our AI assistant about Tennessee'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 Tennessee's department of agriculture or health department before starting a cottage food business.