Cottage Food Laws in Massachusetts
restrictiveComplete guide to cottage food and bakery regulations in Massachusetts. 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 dollar sales cap (105 CMR 590 residential kitchen) |
| License Required | Yes — Must obtain a Residential Kitchen license from the local Board of Health. Annual renewal required. |
| Kitchen Inspection | Kitchen inspection by the local Board of Health is typically required for licensing. |
| Online Sales | Allowed — Internet and mail-order sales within Massachusetts are permitted as direct-to-consumer sales under the residential kitchen permit. |
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Candy
- Jams and jellies
- Dry mixes
Prohibited Products
- Cream-filled pastries
- Meat products
- Dairy products
- Canned foods
Labeling Requirements
- Name and address of the producer
- Name of the product
- Ingredients list
- "Made in a residential kitchen that may also process common food allergens"
- Allergen information
Where You Can Sell
- Farmers markets
- Direct from home
How Massachusetts Compares
| State | Sales Limit | License | Online | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | No dollar sales cap (105 CMR 590 residential kitchen) | Yes | Yes | restrictive |
| Connecticut | $50,000 per year | Yes | No | moderate |
| New York | No statewide cap (varies by county) | No | No | moderate |
| New Hampshire | No sales cap (the cap was removed by HB 119, effective July 1, 2023) | Yes | Yes | permissive |
| Rhode Island | $50,000 per year | Yes | No | moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to sell baked goods from home in Massachusetts?▾
Yes. You need a Residential Kitchen license from your local Board of Health, which typically involves a kitchen inspection.
Can I sell at retail stores in Massachusetts?▾
No. Massachusetts cottage food law limits sales to direct-to-consumer venues like farmers markets.
Official source: Mass.gov — Residential Kitchen Q&A