MI Cottage food law
Michigan cottage food law
Michigan Food Law cottage food exemptions. Administered by Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).
- Permit
- No license or inspection for cottage food operations; they must follow the labeling and other Food Law provisions.
- Sales cap
- Up to $50,000 in gross sales a year, or $75,000 if products sell for $250 or more per unit. Keep sales records for MDARD on request.
- Where you can sell
- Direct to customers (farmers markets, craft shows, roadside stands). Internet, mail order and third-party delivery are allowed if the customer can speak with the operator before the sale. Sales and delivery only within Michigan.
- Training
- MSU Extension offers MDARD-funded online training; check MDARD for whether it's required for your situation.
Confirm with Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. This is a summary of the official guidance listed under Sources, checked September 29, 2026. Official page
What you can make
Non-potentially hazardous foods that don't need time or temperature control, made in the kitchen of your primary residence.
What you can't
Foods needing time/temperature control (including meats and dehydrated meats), beverages and juices, sauces and condiments like barbecue sauce, hot sauce, ketchup or mustard, dietary supplements, pet food. Rented or licensed kitchens don't qualify.
Label requirements
- Name and physical address of the home kitchen (or an MSU Product Center voluntary registration number and phone number instead of the address)
- Ingredients in descending order by weight, including sub-ingredients
- Net weight or volume, with the metric equivalent
- Allergens per federal labeling rules
- MDARD's required home-kitchen statement (see the labeling page)
Recent change
The sales cap rose to $50,000 ($75,000 for items priced at $250 or more).
Outgrowing your home kitchen
We don't have Michigan kitchen listings yet. If you run a commercial kitchen that rents time, add it for free.
Questions people ask
Do I need a permit to sell food from home in Michigan?
No license or inspection for cottage food operations; they must follow the labeling and other Food Law provisions.
How much can I sell under Michigan's cottage food law?
Up to $50,000 in gross sales a year, or $75,000 if products sell for $250 or more per unit. Keep sales records for MDARD on request.
Where can I sell cottage food in Michigan?
Direct to customers (farmers markets, craft shows, roadside stands). Internet, mail order and third-party delivery are allowed if the customer can speak with the operator before the sale. Sales and delivery only within Michigan.
What happens when I outgrow the cottage food law?
If you pass the sales cap or want to make foods the law excludes, you'll need a licensed kitchen. Renting time in a shared commercial kitchen is the usual next step.
Sources
Last checked September 29, 2026.