District of Columbia cottage food makers
9 listings in District of Columbia so far, and growing. Scroll down for District of Columbia's cottage food rules.
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District of Columbia (9 listings)
District of Columbia cottage food rules in plain English
This is general information, not legal advice. Check your District and local rules. Last reviewed Nov. 4, 2026.
What it is
The District of Columbia lets a cottage food business make approved non-potentially hazardous foods in the kitchen of the owner's primary residence in D.C. and sell them within the District after registering with DC Health's Cottage Food Business Registry. A home occupancy permit is required.
Sources: D.C. Code 7-742.01; D.C. Code 7-742.02(b); DC Health Cottage Food Businesses
License or permit
You must register with the Cottage Food Business Registry before you operate. DC Health's 2021 FAQ lists a $50 registration fee for two years; confirm the current fee with DC Health. Before you apply, get a home occupancy permit from the Department of Buildings, a Certified Food Protection Manager certification and a DC-issued CFPM ID card. DC Health may do a pre-operational kitchen inspection. Local zoning and other codes still apply.
Sources: D.C. Code 7-742.02(b); DC Health Cottage Food Businesses; DC Health Cottage Food FAQ
Sales cap
There is no sales cap. D.C. Law 23-61 repealed the revenue limit in 2020.
Sources: D.C. Code 7-742.01; D.C. Law 23-61
What you can sell
Only products on DC Health's approved list in 25-K DCMR 103.5 are allowed, including baked goods without cream, custard, cheese or meat fillings; cakes; candies; pastries, pies, brownies, cookies and tortillas; snacks such as caramel corn, nuts, dried fruits, crackers, pretzels and popcorn; jams, jellies, syrups and preserves; honey; dried pasta; dry herbs, seasoning blends, tea blends and baking mixes; roasted coffee; and vinegars. Products not on the list need lab results for pH and water activity and DC Health approval.
Sources: 25-K DCMR 103; D.C. Code 7-742.02(b)
What you cannot sell
Time/temperature control for safety foods, alcohol, pet treats, canned fruits, vegetables, vegetable butters and salsas, meat and poultry including dehydrated meat, fruit butters and pressed juices are not allowed. Baked goods may not be decorated with fresh fruits or vegetables.
Sources: DC Health Cottage Food FAQ
How you can sell
Cottage food may be sold by direct, retail and online sales to consumers within the District, and since June 10, 2025, wholesale to licensed food establishments within the District under D.C. Law 26-7. Selling or shipping outside the District is not allowed.
Sources: D.C. Code 7-742.01; D.C. Law 26-7; DC Health Cottage Food Businesses; DC Health Cottage Food FAQ
Labels
Each product must be prepackaged with the cottage food business ID number, product name, ingredients by weight, net weight or volume, allergen information and nutrition information if a claim is made, plus this statement in at least 10-point type in a contrasting color: "Made by a cottage food business that is not subject to the District of Columbia's food safety regulations."
Sources: D.C. Code 7-742.02(c)
Read the full District of Columbia cottage food law guide and FAQs