Cottage Food Operations: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Kirkland, WA
King County
Home-based food production in Kirkland needs a WSDA Cottage Food Operations permit under RCW 69.22, with sales capped at 25,000 dollars and approved non-hazardous foods only.
View full Kirkland rules →Seattle, 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 →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | WSDA Cottage Food | WSDA Cottage Food |
| Sales Cap | 25,000 per year | $25,000/year |
| Allowed Foods | Non-potentially hazardous | - |
| Prohibited | Dairy, meat, canned veggies | - |
| Local Req | Kirkland business license + KZC 115.35 | - |
| State Law | - | RCW 69.22 |
| Sales | - | Direct-to-consumer only |
| County Rule | - | KCC 21A.30.080 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
Can I sell home-baked goods from my Kirkland kitchen?
Yes with a WSDA Cottage Food Operations permit, proper labeling, up to 25,000 dollars in annual sales, and a Kirkland business license.
Can I sell home-canned pickles?
No. Canned vegetables, salsa, and most acidified foods are excluded from the Washington cottage food program.
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 — 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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