Cottage Food Operations: Penn Hills vs Pittsburgh
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Penn Hills, PA and Pittsburgh, PA?
Penn Hills has fewer restrictions than Pittsburgh.
Penn Hills, PA
Allegheny County
Pennsylvania Act 106 of 2022 codified cottage food operations, allowing sale of non-hazardous home-produced foods (baked goods, jams, candies) directly to consumers. PA Department of Agriculture registration is required. Allegheny County Health Department provides guidance; no extra county permit required.
View full Penn Hills rules →Pittsburgh, PA
Allegheny County
PA regulates cottage food via its Limited Food Establishment program (Act 106). Pittsburgh producers register with PA Dept. of Agriculture for $35/year. No sales cap.
View full Pittsburgh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Penn Hills | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | PA Act 106 of 2022 | 3 Pa.C.S. Chapter 57 (Act 106) |
| Registration | PA Dept of Agriculture | - |
| Products | Non-hazardous shelf-stable | - |
| Sales | Direct-to-consumer only | - |
| ACHD | Complaint inspections | - |
| Registration Fee | - | $35 per year -- PA Dept. of Agriculture |
| Sales Cap | - | None once registered |
| Inspection | - | Home kitchen inspection required |
| Prohibited Items | - | Perishable baked goods, low-acid canned foods |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Penn Hills FAQ
Can I sell home-baked cookies from my Allegheny County home?
Yes, under PA Act 106 cottage food law. Register with PA Department of Agriculture, complete a food safety course, and label products properly. Home occupation zoning rules still apply.
Who enforces this in Allegheny County?
Allegheny County at (412) 350-4636 handles most complaints.
Pittsburgh FAQ
Do I need a license to sell homemade food in Pittsburgh?
Yes. You must register as a Limited Food Establishment with the PA Department of Agriculture, pay the $35 annual fee, and pass a home kitchen inspection. Pittsburgh zoning rules for home occupations also apply if customers visit your home.
Is there a sales limit for cottage food in Pennsylvania?
No. Once registered as a Limited Food Establishment, Pennsylvania does not impose an annual sales cap. You may sell at farmers markets, online, at retail stores, and through mail order including interstate.
What foods can I sell from home in Pennsylvania?
Allowed items include baked goods, candy, condiments, honey, jerky, dry goods, fermented foods, and snacks. Perishable baked goods and low-acid canned foods are not permitted.
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