Cottage Food Laws in Alabama

moderate

Complete guide to selling baked goods from home in Alabama. Updated for 2026.

Last verified: April 2026

Annual Sales Limit$25,000 per year
License RequiredNoNo license or permit required. Must register with the local health department.
Kitchen InspectionNo inspection required.
Online SalesNot allowedOnline sales are not explicitly permitted. Sales must be direct, person-to-person.

Allowed Products

  • Baked goods
  • Candy
  • Jams and jellies
  • Dry mixes
  • Honey

Prohibited Products

  • Foods requiring refrigeration
  • Meat products
  • Dairy products

Labeling Requirements

  • Name and address of the producer
  • Name of the product
  • Ingredients list
  • "Made in a home kitchen that is not inspected by the state or local health department"

Where You Can Sell

  • Farmers markets
  • Direct from home
  • Community events

How Alabama Compares

StateSales LimitLicenseOnlineLevel
Alabama$25,000 per yearNoNomoderate
Tennessee$75,000 per yearNoNomoderate
Georgia$150,000 per year (tiered: $35,000 Tier 1, $150,000 Tier 2)YesYesmoderate
Florida$250,000 per yearNoYespermissive
Mississippi$35,000 per yearNoNomoderate

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to sell baked goods from home in Alabama?

No. Alabama does not require a license or permit for cottage food operations, but you should register with your local county health department.

Can I sell my cottage food products online in Alabama?

Online ordering is not explicitly allowed. Sales must generally be made in person, directly to the consumer.

What is the annual sales limit for cottage food in Alabama?

Cottage food operators in Alabama are limited to $25,000 in gross annual sales.

Official source: Alabama Dept. of Public Health — Cottage Food Guidance

See an error? Let us know

Running a cottage food business in Alabama?

BakeOnyx handles orders, recipes, pricing, and customers — so you can focus on baking.

Start Free 14-Day TrialNo credit card required