Cottage Food Operations: Buffalo vs Clarence
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Buffalo, NY and Clarence, NY?
Buffalo and Clarence have similar restriction levels.
Buffalo, NY
Erie County
Buffalo home bakers and food producers operate under NY Agriculture and Markets Law Article 20-C (Home Processor exemption). Registration with NY Ag and Markets is required, limited to low-risk shelf-stable foods. No Buffalo-specific cottage-food license is required.
View full Buffalo rules →Clarence, NY
Erie County
Cottage food in Erie County follows New York's state Home Processor exemption under Ag & Markets Article 20-C, not a county rule. Registration is free and lets you sell certain non-hazardous baked goods, jams, and snacks made in your home kitchen.
View full Clarence rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Buffalo | Clarence |
|---|---|---|
| State law | Article 20-C Home Processor | - |
| Registration | Free via Ag and Markets | - |
| Allowed | Shelf-stable baked/jam/candy | - |
| Prohibited | Meat, dairy, anything refrigerated | - |
| City license | None required | - |
| Program | - | NY Home Processor exemption |
| Authority | - | NY Ag & Markets (Art 20-C) |
| Cost | - | Free registration |
| Sales area | - | New York State only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Buffalo FAQ
Can I sell cupcakes to neighbors from my Buffalo home?
Yes, once you register as a Home Processor with NY Ag and Markets and pass the kitchen inspection. Keep labeling compliant with Article 20-C.
Can I sell at farmers markets in Erie County?
Yes, with a Home Processor registration, a NY sales tax Certificate of Authority, and the markets own vendor application.
Clarence FAQ
Do I register with Erie County to sell baked goods?
No. You register free with NY Department of Agriculture and Markets under the state Home Processor exemption, not the county.
What can I sell under cottage food rules?
Non-refrigerated baked goods, high-acid jams and jellies, and dry snacks. Refrigerated foods, meat, and cream fillings are prohibited.
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