Cottage Food Operations: Milwaukee vs West Allis
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Milwaukee, WI and West Allis, WI?
Milwaukee has fewer restrictions than West Allis.
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee County
Wisconsin's Cottage Food law (2017 Act 1, known as the Baker's Bill) allows Milwaukee residents to sell home-baked non-hazardous foods without a license up to $25,000 in annual sales.
View full Milwaukee rules →West Allis, WI
Milwaukee County
Milwaukee County does not regulate cottage food. Selling homemade foods is governed by Wisconsin state law and DATCP, including the Wis. Stat. 97.29 'pickle bill' exemption for home-canned high-acid foods sold under $5,000 per year.
View full West Allis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Milwaukee | West Allis |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | 2017 Wis. Act 1 | - |
| Annual Cap | $25,000 | - |
| Labeling | Required | - |
| City License | Not required | - |
| County rule | - | None |
| State agency | - | DATCP |
| Sales cap | - | Under $5,000/year |
| Allowed foods | - | pH 4.6 or lower |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Milwaukee FAQ
West Allis FAQ
Does Milwaukee County regulate cottage food?
No. Homemade food sales are governed by Wisconsin state law and DATCP, including the Wis. Stat. 97.29 pickle bill exemption.
How much can I sell?
Under the pickle bill, less than $5,000 per year of qualifying home-canned high-acid foods, sold at community events or Wisconsin farmers markets, with the required label.
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