North Carolina Cottage Food Laws
Last reviewed: January 15, 2025
North Carolina’s cottage food law allows home-based producers to sell certain baked goods, candies, jams, and other non-potentially-hazardous foods directly to consumers. Registration and labeling rules apply.
Rules can change. Verify with official state guidance.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current state guidance. Cottage food laws vary by state and can change. Always verify requirements with your state or local regulatory authority before selling.
What you can sell under state rules
What typically appears on your labels
Annual caps and reporting
Requirements to operate
Pickup, delivery, shipping
Verify with your state
At a glance
Below is a general checklist; your state’s rules apply. Verify with official resources before selling.
- Allowed foods: non–potentially hazardous, shelf-stable products (state list applies)
- Registration or permit typically required before selling
- Labeling typically includes producer info, ingredients, and a home kitchen statement
- Sales limits may apply; track gross sales if your state has a cap
- Direct sales to the consumer are the norm; shipping rules vary by state
Allowed foods
Allowed products include many baked goods (breads, cookies, cakes, brownies), candies, jams and jellies, dried fruits, and similar items that do not require refrigeration for safety. The state defines the list of permitted foods; only those may be sold under the cottage food exemption.
Full allowed foods guideRestricted or prohibited foods
Potentially hazardous foods, including cream-filled or custard-filled pastries, cheesecakes that require refrigeration, and canned low-acid foods, are not allowed under the cottage law. Meat, poultry, and refrigerated dairy-based products are excluded.
Registration and training
Cottage food operators must register with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) or as required by current law. Some training or food safety education may be required. Verify with NCDA&CS.
Sales limits
North Carolina sets an annual gross sales limit for cottage food operations (check current statute for the exact amount). Sales above the cap may require a different permit or facility. Keep records to stay within the limit.
Full sales limits guideLabeling
Labels must include the producer’s name and address, product name, ingredients in descending order, net weight or volume, and a statement that the food was prepared in a kitchen that is not subject to routine inspection. Allergen information should be included where applicable.
Full labeling requirementsShipping, delivery, and direct sales
Direct sales to the consumer are permitted; pickup and local delivery are common. Rules on shipping cottage foods vary; confirm with NCDA&CS and current regulations before offering shipping.
Official resources
Verify current requirements with your state or local authority.
Related compliance resources
Ready to sell locally?
Create your seller storefront, list your products, and connect with buyers in your area. We help you stay compliant and visible.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current state guidance. Cottage food laws vary by state and can change. Always verify requirements with your state or local regulatory authority before selling.