Is Cottage Food Legal in Michigan? (2026)

Key facts

Status

Restricted

Permit required

No

Jurisdiction

Michigan

Last reviewed

2026-02-26

Cottage Food laws in Michigan

Michigan's Cottage Food Law (Public Act 113 of 2010), amended Section 4102 of the Michigan Food Law of 2000 (MCL 289.1101 et seq.), permits individuals to make and sell specific food products prepared in an unlicensed home kitchen directly to consumers. These foods are generally considered 'non-potentially hazardous' and include baked goods, jams, jellies, candy, and dried fruit. The law specifies that sales must be direct to the consumer, such as at farmers' markets, roadside stands, or from the home. There is an annual gross sales limit of $25,000 for cottage food operations. The law prohibits the sale of 'potentially hazardous foods' which require time or temperature control for safety, such as fresh meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, or refrigerated baked goods. All cottage food products must be packaged and properly labeled with the name and address of the cottage food operation, the product's common name, all ingredients in descending order by weight, allergen information, and a statement that the food is not inspected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Cottage food operations are exempt from most licensing and inspection requirements that apply to commercial food establishments, but they are still subject to general food safety principles. While largely self-regulated, MDARD can investigate complaints regarding cottage food products. Violations could lead to cease and desist orders or restrictions on sales. The intent is to encourage small-scale entrepreneurship while safeguarding public health by restricting the types of foods that can be sold without commercial oversight.

Frequently asked questions

Is cottage food legal in Michigan for travelers?

For travelers visiting Michigan, cottage food is currently restricted. Michigan's Cottage Food Law (Public Act 113 of 2010), amended Section 4102 of the Michigan Food Law of 2000 (MCL 289.1101 et seq.), permits individuals to make and sell specific food products prepared in an unlicensed home kitchen directly to consumers. These foods are generally considered 'non-potentially hazardous' and include baked goods, jams, jellies, candy, and dried fruit. The law specifies that sales must be direct to the consumer, such as at farmers' markets, roadside stands, or from the home. There is an annual gross sales limit of $25,000 for cottage food operations. The law prohibits the sale of 'potentially hazardous foods' which require time or temperature control for safety, such as fresh meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, or refrigerated baked goods. All cottage food products must be packaged and properly labeled with the name and address of the cottage food operation, the product's common name, all ingredients in descending order by weight, allergen information, and a statement that the food is not inspected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Cottage food operations are exempt from most licensing and inspection requirements that apply to commercial food establishments, but they are still subject to general food safety principles. While largely self-regulated, MDARD can investigate complaints regarding cottage food products. Violations could lead to cease and desist orders or restrictions on sales. The intent is to encourage small-scale entrepreneurship while safeguarding public health by restricting the types of foods that can be sold without commercial oversight.

Do I need a permit for cottage food in Michigan?

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

Can I transport cottage food through Michigan?

Transport laws for cottage food in Michigan 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 Michigan?

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