Cottage Food Laws in New Jersey
restrictiveComplete guide to selling baked goods from home in New Jersey. Updated for 2026.
Last verified: April 2026
| Annual Sales Limit | $50,000 per year |
| License Required | Yes — Must obtain a Cottage Food license from the local health department. Annual renewal required. |
| Kitchen Inspection | An inspection of the home kitchen by the local health department is typically required. |
| Online Sales | Not allowed — Online sales are not authorized. Sales must be direct to consumer in person. |
Allowed Products
- Baked goods
- Candy
- Jams and jellies
- Dry mixes
Prohibited Products
- Cream-filled pastries
- Meat products
- Dairy products
- Pickled vegetables
Labeling Requirements
- Name and address of the producer
- Name of the product
- Ingredients list
- "This product is not prepared in a licensed or inspected food establishment"
- Common allergen declarations
Where You Can Sell
- Farmers markets
- Direct from home
- Community events
How New Jersey Compares
| State | Sales Limit | License | Online | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $50,000 per year | Yes | No | restrictive |
| New York | No statewide cap (varies by county) | No | No | moderate |
| Pennsylvania | $50,000 per year | No | No | moderate |
| Delaware | $25,000 per year | Yes | No | moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a kitchen inspection to sell cottage food in New Jersey?▾
Typically yes. The local health department will usually conduct an inspection of your home kitchen as part of the licensing process.
Can I sell at grocery stores in New Jersey?▾
No. New Jersey limits cottage food sales to direct-to-consumer channels only.
Official source: NJ Dept. of Health — Cottage Food
See an error? Let us know