Prince William County, VA Home Business: Cottage Food Operations (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- VA Code 3.2-5130
- Administered by
- VDACS
- Required label
- Processed without state inspection
- Acidified vegetables cap
- $9,000 annual gross sales
- Honey limit
- Under 250 gallons annually
Summary
Prince William County follows Virginia's home food processing exemption. Under VA Code 3.2-5130, certain non-hazardous foods made in a private home (baked goods, candies, jams, dried mixes) may be sold without state inspection if labeled 'NOT FOR RESALE. PROCESSED AND PREPARED WITHOUT STATE INSPECTION.'
candies, jams, and jellies not considered to be low-acid or acidified low-acid food products, dried fruits, dry herbs, dry seasonings, dry mixtures, coated and uncoated nuts, vinegars and flavored vinegars, popcorn, popcorn balls, cotton candy, dried pasta, dry baking mixes, roasted coffee, dried tea, cereals, trail mixes, granola, and baked goods
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Cottage food in Prince William County is governed by Virginia Code 3.2-5130, the home food-processing exemption administered by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS). Exempt foods include candies, jams and jellies not classified as low-acid or acidified low-acid, dried fruits, dry herbs, seasonings and mixes, coated and uncoated nuts, vinegars, popcorn, dried pasta, dry baking mixes, roasted coffee, dried tea, cereals, trail mixes, granola, and baked goods that do not require temperature control. Products must be sold for personal consumption (not resale) and labeled that they were processed without state inspection. Acidified vegetables carry a $9,000 annual sales cap and honey is limited to under 250 gallons yearly.
Violations & Fines
Selling non-exempt or mislabeled home-processed food, or exceeding the caps, subjects the operator to VDACS enforcement; unpermitted commercial food processing may be enjoined.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell baked goods from my Prince William County home?
What label is required?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Prince William County
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