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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

Some Restrictions

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 β†’

Seattle, WA

King County

Some Restrictions

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 β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactFederal WaySeattle
State Permit Fee$355 (WSDA)-
Sales Cap$25,000 per year$25,000/year
Allowed ProductsNon-hazardous only-
Local CodeFWRC 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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