Kootenai County, ID Home Business: Cottage Food Operations (2026)

Cottage food is governed by Idaho statewide guidance, not a Kootenai County ordinance. Cottage food operations may produce foods that do not require time or temperature control for safety (non-TCS foods) and distribute them directly to Idaho consumers without regulatory oversight. Allowed foods include non-refrigerated baked goods, fruit jams and jellies, honey, fruit pies, breads, candies, dried fruit, dry herbs, and similar shelf-stable items; acidified foods such as pickled products are not allowed. Products must carry a label or placard with the operation's contact information stating the food was prepared in a home kitchen not subject to regulation and inspection and may contain allergens. Selling wholesale, to third parties, or outside Idaho makes the operation a regulated food establishment.