Is Cottage Food Legal in Georgia? (2026)
Yes. In Georgia, cottage food is legal. Georgia permits the home production of certain non-potentially hazardous foods for sale directly to consumers, as long as specific state regulations are followed..
Key facts
- Status
- Legal
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Georgia
- Last reviewed
- 2026-02-26
Cottage Food laws in Georgia
The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) regulates cottage food operations. Operators can sell 'non-potentially hazardous' foods, which are foods that do not require temperature control for safety, such as baked goods (bread, cakes, cookies), jams, jellies, and dried herbs. These foods must be prepared in a domestic kitchen, which is not subject to food service establishment inspection requirements, provided the annual gross sales do not exceed $60,000. Sales must be direct to the consumer, meaning sales can occur at farmers' markets, roadside stands, community events, and directly from the home, but not to grocery stores or restaurants. Key requirements include proper labeling with the name and address of the cottage food operation, product name, ingredients, major allergens, and a statement: 'THIS PRODUCT IS HOME PRODUCED.' The operator must complete an approved food safety training course and maintain records of sales. All ingredients must be fit for human consumption and stored and prepared in a sanitary manner. The GDA has detailed guidelines and FAQ documents available on its website outlining permissible foods and operational requirements, primarily under the Georgia Food Act, O.C.G.A. § 26-2-20 et seq., and GDA rules specifically related to cottage food operations.
Frequently asked questions
Is cottage food legal in Georgia for travelers?
For travelers visiting Georgia, cottage food is currently legal. The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) regulates cottage food operations. Operators can sell 'non-potentially hazardous' foods, which are foods that do not require temperature control for safety, such as baked goods (bread, cakes, cookies), jams, jellies, and dried herbs. These foods must be prepared in a domestic kitchen, which is not subject to food service establishment inspection requirements, provided the annual gross sales do not exceed $60,000. Sales must be direct to the consumer, meaning sales can occur at farmers' markets, roadside stands, community events, and directly from the home, but not to grocery stores or restaurants. Key requirements include proper labeling with the name and address of the cottage food operation, product name, ingredients, major allergens, and a statement: 'THIS PRODUCT IS HOME PRODUCED.' The operator must complete an approved food safety training course and maintain records of sales. All ingredients must be fit for human consumption and stored and prepared in a sanitary manner. The GDA has detailed guidelines and FAQ documents available on its website outlining permissible foods and operational requirements, primarily under the Georgia Food Act, O.C.G.A. § 26-2-20 et seq., and GDA rules specifically related to cottage food operations.
Do I need a permit for cottage food in Georgia?
Georgia does not specifically require a permit for cottage food, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport cottage food through Georgia?
Transport laws for cottage food in Georgia depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for cottage food violations in Georgia?
Penalties for cottage food violations in Georgia vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.