@Linda Velez-Reblando posted:@Vartouhi - hi! I'm going through the process of getting a Cottage Food certification and business license myself. If I can just say, is not that easy at least not in Georgia, where I live. Like Julia said goggle "Cottage Food Program" for your state, or go to the Department of Agriculture site for your state, as that's where this program falls under.
The requirements vary from state to state. Some states are more strict than others... GA seems to be on the strict category.
Here's a really good FB group to join - The Foodpreneur Institute - https://www.facebook.com/foodpreneurinstitute/ The group was created by 3-4 Cottage Food operators to teach bakers how to obtain the certification and share relevant info about the industry, as well as some regulations across the US.
This webinar also gives you a good in-depth overview of what the requirements are -- but remember, requirements vary from state-to-state -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zb29UPDI708
Hope this helps and much success!
Hello!
I realize that the above is an old post, but just tried the youtube link and found it no longer valid.
I did find a current webinar by the CCOF https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nox5z_QYQsY that should be of interest to those who are interested in the Cottage Food Laws in the State of California and State of Washington, and those in other states generally. Full length of the webinar is 1hr 27mins and is dated 4/28/2022. Note that Federal regulations are also referenced where compliance is required by the Cottage Food Operator for the food product chosen to sell.
This webinar offers those looking/considering to just start operations under Cottage Food Laws (I would definitely recommend watching the whole thing) pertinent details of how to get the cogs in motion. Cottage Food Laws start at 27:30, State of California Cottage Food Laws start at 32:27, and State of Washington Cottage Food Laws starts at 43:00.
Commonalities with Cottage Food Laws among US States: Production is only in primary residence kitchen, hand washing sinks available (designated for the Cottage Food operations), not allowed to have carpet in areas of production, countertops have to be easy to clean, have to have a management plan to restrict kitchen access by pets and children during production, basic requirements for cleaning and sanitation, approved ingredients sources (56:03) labeling requirements (59:27), organic considerations - and labeling (1:01:46), Resource list for those interested in starting a Cottage Food business (1:06:01).
Best to you all in your cookie adventures!