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Oro Valley vs Tucson

How do cottage food operations rules compare between Oro Valley, AZ and Tucson, AZ?

Oro Valley and Tucson have similar restriction levels.

Oro Valley, AZ

Pima County

Few Restrictions

Under ARS 36-1761, cottage food operators may sell baked goods and other non-hazardous foods from home without a food license. Annual sales capped at 5,000.

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Tucson, AZ

Pima County

Few Restrictions

Arizona Cottage Food Program under ARS 36-136.C allows home production of non-hazardous baked goods, candies, jams, dry mixes, and similar items for sale directly to consumers. Tucson participants must register with Arizona Department of Health Services, complete a food handler course, and label products with required disclosures.

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Key Facts Comparison

FactOro ValleyTucson
State LawARS 36-1761-
Annual Sales Cap$75,000-
License RequiredNo food establishment license needed-
LabelingRequired: name, address, allergens, date-
WholesaleNot permitted-
State Program-ARS 36-136.C
Sales Cap-Direct to consumer only
Required Label-Home kitchen disclosure
Prohibited-Refrigerated and time-temp items
Registration-Arizona DHS

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Oro Valley FAQ

Do I need a food license to sell baked goods from home in Oro Valley?

No. Under ARS 36-1761, cottage food operations producing non-potentially-hazardous foods like baked goods do not need a food establishment license. You should still get a home occupation permit from the Town.

Can I sell cottage food at the Oro Valley Farmers Market?

Yes. ARS 36-1761 permits direct-to-consumer sales at farmers markets. All products must carry the required label with your name, address, allergen information, and the home kitchen disclaimer.

What foods are NOT allowed under the cottage food law?

Foods requiring refrigeration for safety are prohibited, including items with meat, dairy-based fillings needing temperature control, canned vegetables, and fermented foods.

Tucson FAQ

Can I sell homemade cookies in Tucson?

Yes through the Arizona Cottage Food Program. Register with Arizona DHS, complete food handler training, and label your products. Sales must be direct to consumers at farmers markets, events, or online pickup within Arizona.

Can I sell homemade salsa or canned goods?

Generally no. Canned low-acid foods and salsas require commercial kitchen production. Only non-hazardous shelf-stable goods like dry mixes, baked items, and sealed candy qualify for cottage food.

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