Cottage Food Laws in Illinois
moderateComplete guide to cottage food and bakery regulations in Illinois. Updated for 2026.
General information, not legal advice. Cottage food laws change frequently — verify with the official source before launching your business. Report an error. Last verified: August 2026.
| Annual Sales Limit | No sales cap (Home-to-Market Act, SB 2007, effective January 1, 2022) |
| License Required | No — No state license required. Cottage food operators must register with their local health department before selling. |
| Kitchen Inspection | Home Kitchen: no inspection. Cottage Food (higher tier): inspection required. |
| Online Sales | Allowed — In-state online sales and shipping of non-perishable cottage foods are permitted; out-of-state shipping is not. |
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Candy
- Jams and jellies
- Granola
- Popcorn
Prohibited Products
- Cream-filled pastries
- 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 Dept. of Public Health"
- Date of preparation
Where You Can Sell
- Farmers markets
- Direct from home
- Community events
How Illinois Compares
| State | Sales Limit | License | Online | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | No sales cap (Home-to-Market Act, SB 2007, effective January 1, 2022) | No | Yes | moderate |
| Indiana | $50,000 per year | No | Yes | moderate |
| Iowa | No sales limit for unlicensed cottage food. Home Food Processing Establishment (HFPE) license required above $50,000. | No | No | permissive |
| Missouri | No sales cap (the cap was removed by HB 1697, effective 2022) | No | Yes | permissive |
| Wisconsin | No cap on home-baked goods (Lafayette County injunction, Kivirist v. DATCP); a $5,000/year limit applies only to home-canned "Pickle Bill" goods | No | No | moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a sales limit for cottage food in Illinois?▾
No. The Home-to-Market Act (SB 2007, effective January 1, 2022) removed the sales cap and the old tiered limits. In-state online sales and shipping of non-perishable items are also allowed.
Do I need food safety training in Illinois?▾
Yes. Illinois requires completion of a food handler safety course.
Official source: Illinois Dept. of Public Health — Cottage Food