Cottage Food Operations: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Cottage food is allowed in Federal Way with a WSDA permit ($355). Only non-hazardous foods (baked goods, jams, dry mixes) may be sold, capped at $25,000 per year. FWRC 19.270 home-occupation rules also apply.
View full Federal Way rules βSeattle, WA
King County
Washington Cottage Food Act (RCW 69.22) lets residents make non-hazardous foods at home and sell up to $25,000 per year with a WSDA permit. King County also requires compliance with KCC 21A.30.080 home occupation rules.
View full Seattle rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| State Permit Fee | $355 (WSDA) | - |
| Sales Cap | $25,000 per year | $25,000/year |
| Allowed Products | Non-hazardous only | - |
| Local Code | FWRC 19.270 | - |
| WSDA Contact | (360) 902-1876 | - |
| State Law | - | RCW 69.22 |
| Permit | - | WSDA Cottage Food |
| Sales | - | Direct-to-consumer only |
| County Rule | - | KCC 21A.30.080 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I sell homemade cookies from my Federal Way home?
Yes, with a WSDA Cottage Food Permit ($355) and a Federal Way business license. You must produce them in your primary-residence kitchen and sell direct-to-consumer only, up to $25,000 per year.
Can I ship baked goods to out-of-state customers?
No. Washington cottage food law prohibits internet, mail, wholesale, and out-of-state sales. You can only sell direct to consumers in person.
Seattle FAQ
Can I sell homemade food from my King County home?
Yes, under the Washington Cottage Food Act (RCW 69.22) with a WSDA Cottage Food Operation permit. You can sell up to $25,000 per year of approved non-hazardous foods directly to consumers, and you must also meet unincorporated King County home occupation rules.
What foods are prohibited under the Washington Cottage Food Act?
Potentially hazardous foods that require refrigeration are prohibited β including cheesecake, custard pies, meat products, fresh salsa, canned vegetables, and most dairy-based products. Approved foods include baked goods, jams, jellies, candies, dried herbs, and granola.
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