Dallas vs DeSoto
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Dallas, TX and DeSoto, TX?
Dallas and DeSoto have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Texas state law governing cottage food production operations (CFPOs) preempts local regulation. No city permits, fees, inspections, or licenses are required to sell cottage foods from a home kitchen. Under SB 541 (effective 2025), Texas shifted to an exclusion-based model allowing nearly any home-produced food except meat/poultry, seafood, and frozen products. Annual gross income is capped at $150,000. CFPOs selling time/temperature-controlled foods must register with DSHS.
View full Dallas rules →DeSoto, TX
Dallas County
Cottage food operations in DeSoto are governed primarily by the Texas Cottage Food Law (Tex. Health & Safety Code Chapter 437), which preempts most local regulation. Texas cottage food operators may p
View full DeSoto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | DeSoto |
|---|---|---|
| State Preemption | Local permits/inspections prohibited | - |
| Income Cap | $150,000 annual gross revenue | - |
| Excluded Foods | Meat, poultry, seafood, frozen products | - |
| DSHS Registration | Required for TCS foods only | - |
| Labeling | Name, address or DSHS registration number | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
Do I need a permit to sell baked goods from my Dallas home?
No. Texas cottage food law preempts local regulation. No city permits, fees, or inspections are required. You must follow state labeling requirements and the $150,000 annual gross income cap.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operation?
Under SB 541, Texas uses an exclusion-based model. You can sell almost any home-produced food except meat/poultry products, seafood, and ice/frozen products. TCS foods require DSHS registration.
DeSoto FAQ
Can I sell cottage foods from my DeSoto home?
Yes. Under the Texas Cottage Food Law you may sell permitted shelf-stable foods directly to consumers without a home inspection or state permit, up to $50,000 in annual gross sales.
Do I need a food handler certificate to sell cottage foods in DeSoto?
Yes. Texas requires cottage food operators to complete a basic food handler training course and keep proof of completion.
What foods are NOT allowed under Texas cottage food law?
Potentially hazardous foods requiring refrigeration — meats, dairy products (except certain baked goods), canned vegetables, fish, low-acid canned goods, and cut melons — are not permitted.
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