Takoma Park, MD Home Business: Cottage Food Operations (2026)

Maryland's Cottage Food business law (Health-General Article 21-330.1) permits Takoma Park residents to prepare and sell non-potentially-hazardous foods from their home kitchen without a food processing license. Eligible products include baked goods (bread, cookies, cakes without cream fillings), candies, jams, jellies, dried herbs, granola, popcorn, and similar shelf-stable items. Foods requiring refrigeration (cream cheese frostings, custards, meat products) are not eligible. Annual gross sales may not exceed $50,000. All products must be labeled with the business name, home address, ingredients list, allergen warnings, and the statement: This product was made in a home kitchen that is not inspected by the Department of Health. Sales must be direct to the consumer — at farmers markets, roadside stands, community events, or from the home. Wholesale to stores or restaurants is not permitted. The Takoma Park Farmers Market is a popular venue for cottage food vendors. Montgomery County may require a business license even though no health department food license is needed. Online ordering with local pickup is permitted under the law.