Is Cottage Food Legal in Maine? (2026)

Key facts

Status

Legal

Permit required

No

Jurisdiction

Maine

Last reviewed

2026-02-26

Cottage Food laws in Maine

Maine's Homemade Food Act (7 MRS §2091 et seq.) allows individuals to produce and sell certain low-risk food items from their private homes directly to consumers. These products are typically non-potentially hazardous foods that do not require refrigeration for safety, such as baked goods, jams, jellies, and dried herbs. The law specifically exempts these operations from many licensing, permitting, and inspection requirements that apply to commercial food establishments. However, producers must adhere to proper food safety practices, and their gross annual sales from homemade food products cannot exceed $75,000. The Act emphasizes direct-to-consumer sales, meaning products can be sold from the producer's home, at farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community events. Online sales are permitted if delivery is directly to the consumer within Maine. The law provides specific labeling requirements, including the name and address of the producer, the common name of the food product, and a statement that the food is 'Homemade' and not inspected by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Failure to comply with these provisions could lead to enforcement actions. While a commercial kitchen license is not required, the law does not exempt producers from general food safety principles, and products must be safe for consumption. Any food product that is considered potentially hazardous, requiring time or temperature control for safety, typically does not fall under the cottage food exemption and would require proper licensing.

Frequently asked questions

Is cottage food legal in Maine for travelers?

For travelers visiting Maine, cottage food is currently legal. Maine's Homemade Food Act (7 MRS §2091 et seq.) allows individuals to produce and sell certain low-risk food items from their private homes directly to consumers. These products are typically non-potentially hazardous foods that do not require refrigeration for safety, such as baked goods, jams, jellies, and dried herbs. The law specifically exempts these operations from many licensing, permitting, and inspection requirements that apply to commercial food establishments. However, producers must adhere to proper food safety practices, and their gross annual sales from homemade food products cannot exceed $75,000. The Act emphasizes direct-to-consumer sales, meaning products can be sold from the producer's home, at farmers' markets, roadside stands, and community events. Online sales are permitted if delivery is directly to the consumer within Maine. The law provides specific labeling requirements, including the name and address of the producer, the common name of the food product, and a statement that the food is 'Homemade' and not inspected by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Failure to comply with these provisions could lead to enforcement actions. While a commercial kitchen license is not required, the law does not exempt producers from general food safety principles, and products must be safe for consumption. Any food product that is considered potentially hazardous, requiring time or temperature control for safety, typically does not fall under the cottage food exemption and would require proper licensing.

Do I need a permit for cottage food in Maine?

Maine does not specifically require a permit for cottage food, though general regulations apply.

Can I transport cottage food through Maine?

Transport laws for cottage food in Maine 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 Maine?

Penalties for cottage food violations in Maine vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.