New York Cottage Food Laws
Everything home food sellers in New York need to know to legally sell food from home — permit requirements, sales limits, allowed foods, labeling, and sales channels.
New York runs cottage food under the Home Processor Exemption (Article 20-C). It's free, registration takes a few weeks, and there's no annual dollar cap — but the allowed foods list is narrower than most states.
Home bakers, jam makers, granola sellers, and dry mix producers in New York can register once and sell direct to consumers across the state.
Registration & permit steps
- Download the Home Processor Exemption application from NY Ag & Markets.
- List exactly which exempted products you'll make.
- Mail or submit the application — there's no fee.
- Wait for approval (typically 2–6 weeks).
- Start selling direct-to-consumer in New York with proper labels.
Allowed foods
- Baked goods that don't require refrigeration (cookies, breads, muffins, biscotti)
- Candies, chocolates, and confections
- Jams, jellies, and preserves (high-acid fruits)
- Dry goods (granola, trail mix, dry herb blends, popcorn)
- Roasted coffee beans and dry tea blends
- Dried pasta and dehydrated foods
Prohibited foods
- Foods that require refrigeration (cream-filled pastries, cheesecake, custard pies)
- Meat, poultry, and seafood products
- Low-acid canned goods (canned vegetables, salsa in some states)
- Dairy products such as fresh milk, butter, or soft cheeses
Labeling requirements
- Name and address of the cottage food operation
- Common name of the product
- Complete ingredient list in descending order by weight
- Allergen disclosure (milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, sesame)
- Net weight or volume
- A disclaimer such as "Made in a home kitchen that is not subject to state inspection"
Allowed sales channels
- Direct in-person sales to consumers
- Farmers markets and community events
- Online ordering with local pickup or hand delivery
- Roadside stands and home-based pickup
Important restrictions
- No wholesale sales to restaurants or grocery stores
- Sales typically limited to in-state customers only
- Mail order or interstate shipping is usually not allowed
- Cannot operate as a retail food establishment from your home
Official state resource
Always verify the current law with the official New York agency before launching. Laws change.
This page is editorial content for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Confirm requirements with New York's Department of Health, Department of Agriculture, or a licensed attorney.