Cottage Food Operations: Chicago vs Evanston
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Chicago, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago allows cottage food operations under the Illinois Home-to-Market Act (410 ILCS 625/4, amended 2022) with registration through the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). A Certified Food Protection Manager certificate is required.
View full Chicago rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Illinois' Cottage Food and Home Kitchen Operations Act (410 ILCS 625/4) allows Evanston residents to sell certain homemade food products directly to consumers without a food service license. Cottage food operators may sell up to $75,000 annually (as of 2024 amendment) in non-potentially hazardous baked goods, candies, jams, and other shelf-stable items. Products must be labeled with the operator's name, address, and the statement 'Made in a home kitchen.'
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fee | Max $50 (set by state law) | - |
| Certification | Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) required | - |
| State Law | 410 ILCS 625/4 (Home-to-Market Act) | - |
| Chicago Registration | Through CDPH (not county) | - |
| Prohibited | Meat, poultry, fish, seafood, most dairy | - |
| Annual Sales Cap | - | $75,000 |
| License Required | - | No, exempt under state law |
| Labeling | - | Required with home kitchen disclaimer |
| Eligible Products | - | Shelf-stable baked goods, jams, candy |
| Direct Sales Only | - | Must sell directly to consumer |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
How do I start a cottage food business in Chicago?
Register with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), obtain a Certified Food Protection Manager certificate, and label all products with the required home kitchen disclosure. The registration fee is capped at $50.
What foods can I sell from my home kitchen in Chicago?
Most foods are allowed except meat, poultry, fish, seafood, and most dairy. Baked goods, jams, pickles, and fermented foods are common cottage food products. Acidified and fermented foods require a safety plan.
Do I need my kitchen inspected for a cottage food operation?
No. Cottage food registrations do not involve kitchen inspections. However, the health department may inspect if a food safety complaint is filed.
Evanston FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Evanston?
Yes. Under the Illinois Cottage Food and Home Kitchen Operations Act, you can sell shelf-stable baked goods, candy, jams, and similar products directly to consumers without a food license, up to $75,000 per year. Products must be properly labeled with a home kitchen disclaimer.
Do I need a business license from Evanston?
You do not need a food service license, but your cottage food operation must comply with Evanston's home occupation zoning rules regarding traffic, signage, and business area limits. Contact the Community Development Department for guidance.
Can I sell cottage food products online?
Illinois allows online ordering for cottage food products, but the exchange must occur in person directly between the producer and consumer. You cannot ship cottage food products or sell through third-party delivery services like DoorDash or Uber Eats.
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