Illinois Cottage Food Operations Law: Statewide Home Business Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: 410 ILCS 625/ (PA 102-0633)
Effective: January 1, 2022
Revenue cap: $78,500 annually
Registration: Local health department
Required: Food safety certificate

Full Breakdown

The Home-to-Market Act (Public Act 102-0633), effective January 1, 2022, expanded cottage food operations beyond farmers markets to include direct sales from the producer's home, online, and delivery. Producers must register with the local health department, complete a food safety course, and comply with labeling rules in 410 ILCS 625/. Annual gross receipts are capped at $78,500 (adjusted). Local governments cannot prohibit cottage food operations but retain limited authority over zoning conflicts not directed at cottage food itself.

Violations & Penalties

Selling unlabeled cottage food, exceeding revenue cap, producing prohibited foods like meat or low-acid canned goods, or operating without health department registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my city ban cottage food sales in Illinois?

No. The Home-to-Market Act preempts local prohibitions on cottage food operations. Municipalities may not ban these home-based businesses but can enforce general health and safety provisions.

What foods can I sell from home in Illinois?

Non-potentially hazardous foods like baked goods, jams, jellies, dry mixes, candy, and certain pickled items. Meat, poultry, dairy, and low-acid canned goods are prohibited under state cottage food rules.

Do I need a license to sell cottage food in Illinois?

You must register with your local health department and complete an approved food sanitation course. No state license is required, but proper labeling with your name, address, and ingredients is mandatory.

Illinois Home-to-Market Act Cottage Food Preemption

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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