Georgia Cottage Food Operations Statewide License Rules

Cottage food operations in Georgia are regulated under O.C.G.A. Title 26 and Georgia Department of Agriculture Rule 40-7-19. Producers must obtain a Cottage Food License, pass kitchen inspection, complete an approved food-safety course, and limit sales to non-potentially-hazardous foods such as baked goods, jams, and dry mixes. Annual gross sales are capped at $25,000. Products must include the producer's name, address, license number, and the disclosure that the food was produced in a home kitchen not subject to routine inspection. Sales are allowed direct-to-consumer; certain online and shipping rules apply. Local zoning may restrict commercial activity but cannot waive state licensing.

Selling without a license, exceeding the sales cap, or producing prohibited foods can lead to cease-and-desist orders, administrative fines, and possible misdemeanor charges.