Cottage Food Operations: Apex vs Raleigh

Can I sell home-baked goods from my Apex home?

Yes, with two layers of approval. First, register through the NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) Home Processor program — submit the Application for Home Processor Inspection (free), pass a home kitchen inspection (8-12 weeks), and follow labeling rules. NC has no statewide cottage food law but the NCDA&CS Home Processor program allows unlimited sales of baked goods, jams, candies, dried foods, honey, and similar shelf-stable items. Second, obtain an Apex Home Occupation Permit ($50). On-premises retail food sales are only permitted in Apex's RA Rural Agricultural and RR Rural Residential districts under UDO Sec. 4.5.5.B.3 — in all other Apex zones (LD, MD, HDSF, HDMF, etc.) you must sell off-site at farmers markets, online, by delivery, or at events.

Is there a sales limit on North Carolina cottage food?

No. North Carolina is one of the few states with no sales cap on home food production. The NCDA&CS Home Processor program imposes no annual gross-sales cap, no income limit, and no production volume restriction. You can sell direct-to-consumer at farmers markets, from home (in RA/RR zones in Apex), at roadside stands, festivals, online within NC, and by personal delivery. Wholesaling to grocery stores, restaurant supply, or out-of-state interstate commerce requires a separate commercial-kitchen license.

How do I get my home kitchen inspected?

Apply through the NCDA&CS Food and Drug Protection Division website. A field agent contacts you to schedule a free inspection, typically within 4 to 8 weeks. Bring your recipes and labels.

Can I sell cheesecakes at the State Farmers Market?

No. Cheesecakes, cream pies, and any dairy-based desserts are prohibited under the Home Processor exemption because they require refrigeration. Commercial kitchen licensing is required for those products.