Alexandria, VA Home Business: Cottage Food Operations (2026)
Summary
Alexandria permits certain homemade food products to be sold directly to consumers under cottage food laws. Products must be non-potentially hazardous and properly labeled.
3.2-5130 . Inspections required to operate food establishment. A. It is unlawful to operate as a food manufacturer, food storage warehouse, or retail food establishment until (i) such food manufacturer, food storage warehouse, or retail food establishment has been inspected by the Commissioner and (ii) the Commissioner has issued a permit pursuant to subsection C of § 3.2-5100 for the operation of the food manufacturer, food storage warehouse, or retail food establishment. If the inspection finds no significant health hazards to the public, any food manufacturer, food storage warehouse, or retail food establishment may operate until receipt of the permit. Such permit shall be processed within 30 days of the inspection date. B. If the Commissioner determines that conditions exist in a food
Full Breakdown
Alexandria allows cottage food operations under state cottage food laws. Permitted products typically include baked goods, jams, candies, dried herbs, and other shelf-stable items. Potentially hazardous foods requiring refrigeration are generally excluded. Annual revenue caps typically range from a penalty set by local ordinance depending on state law. Products must be labeled with ingredients, allergens, and "Made in a Home Kitchen" disclaimer. No commercial kitchen or health inspection required for qualifying operations. Sales may be limited to direct-to-consumer channels (farmers markets, online with local delivery).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell homemade baked goods from my home?
Do I need a commercial kitchen?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Alexandria
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