Maryland's Cottage Food Law

Maryland's cottage food law allows individuals to produce and sell certain non-potentially-hazardous foods made in a home kitchen. The law applies to small-scale home producers who operate under the $25,000 annual revenue cap. Covered products are shelf-stable baked goods, jams, jellies, and similar items that don't require refrigeration to stay safe. Your kitchen does not need to be inspected or licensed to qualify.

You can sell directly to consumers through farmers markets, roadside stands, and your own home. Online orders are permitted, which means you can accept payments and coordinate sales through a website or social media. Shipping is not allowed, so every transaction must result in an in-person handoff. You cannot sell wholesale to stores or restaurants under the cottage food exemption.

Your gross annual revenue from cottage food sales cannot exceed $25,000. No permit, license, or registration is required before you start selling. Maryland requires a specific disclaimer on all labels stating that the product was made in a home kitchen that is not inspected by the state or local health department. That straightforward entry point makes Maryland a relatively accessible state for getting your cottage food business off the ground.