Virginia's Cottage Food Law
Virginia's cottage food law allows individuals to produce and sell certain non-potentially-hazardous foods made in a home kitchen. The law applies to home-based producers working without a commercial facility or food establishment license. Covered products are generally shelf-stable baked goods, jams, jellies, and similar low-risk foods. Virginia does not require a food science background or formal training to qualify under this law.
You can sell your cottage food products through direct, in-person channels only. Farmers markets, roadside stands, and on-site sales from your home are all permitted. Online sales are not allowed, and you cannot ship products to customers. All transactions must happen face-to-face, which means your sales are limited to buyers you can reach in person within Virginia.
Virginia caps cottage food revenue at $10,000 per year in gross sales. No permit, license, or registration is required before you start selling. One notable restriction is that Virginia's cap is lower than many other states, so you'll want to track your income carefully as your business grows. Within those boundaries, the law gives you a clear, low-barrier path to start selling your products legally.
Annual Limit
$10,000/year
Permit Required
No
Online Orders
Not Allowed
Shipping
Not Allowed
Permitted Foods
- ✓Baked goods (breads, cookies, cakes, pastries)
- ✓Jams, jellies, and fruit preserves
- ✓Candies and confections
- ✓Roasted nuts
- ✓Dried herbs and seasonings
- ✓Honey
Prohibited Foods
- ✗Meat and poultry products
- ✗Seafood products
- ✗Foods requiring refrigeration or temperature control
- ✗Dairy-based products
- ✗Canned low-acid vegetables
- ✗Fermented or pickled products with pH above 4.6
Labeling Requirements
- ✓Producer's full name and home address
- ✓Product name
- ✓Complete ingredient list
- ✓Major food allergen disclosure
- ✓Net weight or net volume
- ✓Required disclaimer: 'This product was made in a home kitchen that may contain common food allergens. Not for resale.'
Required Label Disclaimer
“This product was made in a home kitchen that may contain common food allergens. Not for resale.”
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