What to Know About Cottage Food Laws
Thinking about selling your homemade or homegrown food in Ohio? You might not need a license—thanks to Ohio’s Cottage Food Laws, many small producers can sell directly to customers with fewer restrictions.
✅ What You Can Sell Without a License
In Ohio, most unprocessed produce and many homemade goods are allowed under cottage food rules. This includes items like:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Baked goods (e.g. bread, cookies, brownies)
- Jams, jellies, and certain canned goods
- Dry mixes, granola, and more
⚠️ What May Require a License
Some foods have stricter rules, including:
- Meats, poultry, and dairy
- Pumpkin pie or other custard-based foods
- Foods that require refrigeration or special handling
If you’re planning to sell any of these, check state guidelines first.
📌 Know the Rules Before You Sell
Even if a license isn’t required, you may still need to follow regulations for:
- Labeling and disclaimers
- Safe preparation and storage
- Where and how you sell your products
This post isn’t legal advice—we’re just pointing you in the right direction.
🔗 Read Ohio’s Official Cottage Food Guide
The Ohio Department of Agriculture keeps this page updated and easy to read—no law degree needed.
GreensShare LLC is here to help small growers and makers share what they love—locally, legally, and confidently.
