Cottage Food Laws in New Hampshire

permissive

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

Last verified: April 2026

Annual Sales Limit$35,000 per year
License RequiredYesMust obtain a Homestead Food License from the NH Dept. of Health and Human Services. Low-cost annual fee.
Kitchen InspectionNo kitchen inspection required for homestead food operations.
Online SalesAllowedOnline sales are permitted with delivery direct to consumers.

Allowed Products

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

Prohibited Products

  • Cream-filled pastries
  • Meat products
  • Dairy products

Labeling Requirements

  • Name and address of the producer
  • Name of the product
  • Ingredients list
  • "This product is exempt from NH food service licensing and inspection"

Where You Can Sell

  • Farmers markets
  • Direct from home
  • Community events
  • Online

How New Hampshire Compares

StateSales LimitLicenseOnlineLevel
New Hampshire$35,000 per yearYesYespermissive
Maine$25,000 per year (Food Sovereignty exemption: no cap for direct sales in participating municipalities)NoNopermissive
Vermont$10,000 per year (Tier 1); higher with Tier 2 registrationNoNomoderate
Massachusetts$25,000 per yearYesNorestrictive

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Homestead Food License in New Hampshire?

A Homestead Food License is a low-cost annual license that allows you to sell homemade non-hazardous foods directly to consumers.

Can I sell my cottage food products online in New Hampshire?

Yes. New Hampshire permits online sales with delivery to consumers.

Official source: NH DHHS — Homestead Food

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