Peoria County, IL Home Business: Cottage Food Operations (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- 410 ILCS 625 (Home-to-Market)
- Register with
- Peoria City/County Health Dept
- Peoria County fee
- None, annual
- Certificate
- Food Protection Manager
- Old sales cap
- Removed
Summary
Illinois expanded home food sales with the 2022 Home-to-Market Act. A cottage food operator registers with the Peoria City/County Health Department, not the state. Registration in Peoria County is free and annual, the old sales cap is gone, and a wide range of foods may be sold directly to consumers.
"Cottage food operation" means an operation conducted by a person who produces or packages food or drink, other than foods and drinks listed as prohibited in paragraph (1.5) of subsection (b) of this Section, in a kitchen located in that person's primary domestic residence or another appropriately designed and equipped kitchen on a farm for direct sale by the owner, a family member, or employee.
Full Breakdown
Illinois greatly expanded home food sales with the Home-to-Market Act (Public Act 102-0633), effective January 1, 2022, amending the Food Handling Regulation Enforcement Act (410 ILCS 625). A cottage food operator registers with the local health authority, the Peoria City/County Health Department for county residents, rather than obtaining a state license. Registration in Peoria County carries no fee and runs annually, and at least one operator must hold a Certified Food Protection Manager certificate. The old sales cap is gone. Operators may sell a wide range of foods directly to consumers statewide, though sales to stores and restaurants for resale remain barred. Each package must be labeled with ingredients, allergens, and a home-kitchen disclaimer.
Violations & Fines
Selling without registering, offering prohibited foods, or mislabeling can bring an order to stop sales and enforcement by the Peoria City/County Health Department; an unregistered retail food operation must obtain full licensing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a state license to sell home-baked goods?
Is there still a sales limit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Peoria County
Compare Peoria County to another location·View the Illinois home business overview
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