Houston vs Pasadena
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Houston, TX and Pasadena, TX?
Houston and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Houston, TX
Harris County
Texas Cottage Food Law (Health & Safety Code Ch. 437) allows Houston residents to produce and sell certain foods from home without permits, inspections, or licenses. No municipal zoning ordinance can ban cottage food operations. Annual revenue is capped at $50,000 (increasing to $150,000 effective September 1, 2025).
View full Houston rules →Pasadena, TX
Harris County
Texas Cottage Food Law (HSC §437.001) allows home baking sales up to $75,000 per year without a food permit. Pasadena has no additional cottage food restrictions. A Home Occupation Permit may be required for ongoing home-based business activity.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Houston | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Law | Texas Health & Safety Code Ch. 437; SB 541 | - |
| Permits Required | None for cottage food operations | - |
| Revenue Cap | $50,000 (increasing to $150,000 Sept. 1, 2025) | - |
| Training | Food handler safety course required | - |
| Zoning Protection | Cannot ban CFPOs from residential use | - |
| Annual Sales Cap | - | $75,000 |
| Food Permit | - | Exempt under state law |
| Home Occupation | - | City permit may apply |
| Sales Method | - | Direct to consumer only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Houston FAQ
Do I need a permit to sell food from my Houston home?
No. Texas Cottage Food Law exempts cottage food production operations from permits, inspections, and licenses. You must complete food handler training and label products properly.
Can my Houston HOA stop me from operating a cottage food business?
Texas law prohibits municipal zoning from banning cottage food operations. However, HOA deed restrictions are not zoning ordinances and may impose separate restrictions on home businesses. Consult your deed restrictions.
Pasadena FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Pasadena TX?
Yes. Texas Cottage Food Law allows home baking sales up to $75,000/year without a food permit. If you have regular customer traffic, a Pasadena Home Occupation Permit may be needed.
Do I need a health inspection for cottage food?
No. Cottage food operations are exempt from food establishment permits and health inspections under Texas law.
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