Cottage Food Laws in Kentucky
moderateComplete guide to cottage food and bakery regulations in Kentucky. 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 | $60,000 per year |
| License Required | No — No license required but must register with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. |
| Kitchen Inspection | No kitchen inspection required. |
| Online Sales | Not allowed — Internet sales are not explicitly authorized. Sales must be face-to-face. |
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Candy
- Jams and jellies
- Honey
- Dry mixes
Prohibited Products
- Cream-filled pastries
- Meat products
- Dairy products
- Canned low-acid foods
Labeling Requirements
- Name and address of the producer
- Name of the product
- Ingredients list
- "NOT INSPECTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH"
- Date the product was made
Where You Can Sell
- Farmers markets
- Direct from home
- Community events
- Roadside stands
How Kentucky Compares
| State | Sales Limit | License | Online | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $60,000 per year | No | No | moderate |
| Indiana | $50,000 per year | No | Yes | moderate |
| Ohio | No sales cap | No | No | moderate |
| West Virginia | No annual sales cap for non-hazardous cottage foods (SB 44) | No | Yes | permissive |
| Virginia | $25,000 per year | No | Yes | moderate |
| Tennessee | No annual sales cap (Tennessee Food Freedom Act) | No | Yes | moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales cap for cottage food in Kentucky?▾
Kentucky allows up to $60,000 in annual gross sales for registered home-based food processors.
Do I need to register to sell baked goods from home in Kentucky?▾
Yes. You must register with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
Official source: Kentucky CHFS — Home-Based Processing