Delaware County, PA Home Business: Cottage Food Operations (2026)
Key Facts
- Program
- Limited Food Establishment
- Registers with
- PA Dept of Agriculture
- Sales cap
- None
- Allowed foods
- Non-hazardous, shelf-stable
- County role
- Not the registrar
Summary
Pennsylvania has no cottage food exemption. To sell home-baked goods you register your home kitchen as a 'limited food establishment' with the PA Department of Agriculture, get inspected, and pay a small fee. There is no sales cap. This is a state program, not county.
The Department's Limited Food Establishment program registers home-based and noncommercial food production sites that meet specific guidelines.
Full Breakdown
The PA Department of Agriculture's Limited Food Establishment program registers home-based, non-commercial kitchens that make only non-hazardous, shelf-stable foods (breads, cookies, cakes, jams, and similar). Registration, an inspection, and a business/kitchen plan are required before selling, including at markets or online. Pennsylvania sets no revenue cap and allows direct and internet sales. Delaware County's role is limited to public food-facility oversight through its Health Department; the home-kitchen registration itself is issued by the state Department of Agriculture.
Violations & Fines
Selling home-produced food without the required registration and inspection violates the PA Food Safety Act and can bring state enforcement and stop-sale orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell home-baked goods without a license?
Is there a sales limit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Delaware County
Compare Delaware County to another location·View the Pennsylvania home business overview
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