Complete guide to Virginia's cottage food laws: No overall limit (pickles/acidified vegetables limited to $3,000/year) annual limit, no registration required, and in-person sales only.
No permit, no registration, no inspection, no sales cap for most products. Acidified vegetables have a $3,000/year cap. Cannot ship products — must sell in person. May advertise online but must complete sale in person.
Annual Sales Limit
No overall limit (pickles/acidified vegetables limited to $3,000/year)
Registration/Permit
No permit, license, or registration required for private home food processing exemption. No state inspection required.
Kitchen Inspection
No inspection required
Food Handler Certification
Not required
Online Sales
No — in-person sales only
Governing Agency
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS)
Legislation: Code of Virginia § 3.2-5130 (Home kitchen food processing exemptions)
Every product you sell must include these on the label:
Virginia allows specific non-potentially-hazardous foods. See the allowed products list above. If your product isn't listed, check with Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS).
Virginia does not require food handler certification, but taking one builds customer trust and helps you follow best practices.
Virginia does not require registration, permits, or licenses for cottage food operations. You can start selling immediately.
Virginia requires specific label elements on every product. See the labeling requirements section above for the exact list.
Begin selling at approved venues in Virginia. Track your sales to stay within the No overall limit (pickles/acidified vegetables limited to $3,000/year) annual limit.
Ask our AI assistant about Virginia'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 Virginia's department of agriculture or health department before starting a cottage food business.