Cottage Food Laws in Maine
moderateComplete guide to cottage food and bakery regulations in Maine. 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 state cap on Home Food License sales. Food Sovereignty ordinances may further exempt direct producer-to-consumer sales in participating municipalities. |
| License Required | Yes — Maine requires a Home Food License ($20/year) for shelf-stable home-produced food, issued by DACF after inspection. Food Sovereignty ordinance municipalities may exempt direct producer-to-consumer sales from this licensing. |
| Kitchen Inspection | Home Food License requires a home kitchen inspection by DACF before licensing. |
| Online Sales | Not allowed — Standard cottage food law requires in-person sales. Food Sovereignty municipalities may vary. |
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Candy
- Jams and jellies
- Pickles
- Dry mixes
Prohibited Products
- Meat products (unless Food Sovereignty)
- Dairy products (unless Food Sovereignty)
Labeling Requirements
- Name and address of the producer
- Name of the product
- Ingredients list
- "This product was made in a residential kitchen"
Where You Can Sell
- Farmers markets
- Direct from home
- Community events
- Wholesale within Maine (with license)
How Maine Compares
| State | Sales Limit | License | Online | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | No state cap on Home Food License sales. Food Sovereignty ordinances may further exempt direct producer-to-consumer sales in participating municipalities. | Yes | No | moderate |
| New Hampshire | No sales cap (the cap was removed by HB 119, effective July 1, 2023) | Yes | Yes | permissive |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maine's Food Sovereignty law?▾
Maine's Food Sovereignty Act allows municipalities to adopt ordinances exempting direct producer-to-consumer food sales from state licensing. Over 100 towns have adopted such ordinances.
Can I sell cottage food at a store in Maine?▾
Under standard cottage food law, no. But Food Sovereignty ordinances may allow broader sales depending on your municipality.
Official source: Maine DACF — Permits and Licenses (Home Food License)