Wisconsin Cottage Food Laws
Last reviewed: January 15, 2025
Wisconsin’s cottage food law allows producers to sell certain homemade foods from their residence without a retail food license. Only approved non-potentially-hazardous foods may be sold, and labeling and registration requirements 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 foods include many baked goods (breads, cookies, cakes, muffins), jams and jellies, candies, dried fruits and vegetables, and similar non-potentially-hazardous items. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture maintains a list of approved products.
Full allowed foods guideRestricted or prohibited foods
Potentially hazardous foods such as cream pies, custards, and items that require refrigeration for safety are not allowed. Canned low-acid foods, meat products, and refrigerated dairy-based products are excluded from the cottage food exemption.
Registration and training
Cottage food producers must register with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP). Registration and any required food safety training must be current. Verify with DATCP for the latest requirements.
Sales limits
Wisconsin may set an annual sales limit for cottage food sales; check current DATCP rules for the cap. Exceeding the limit may require a different license or facility. Maintain sales records.
Full sales limits guideLabeling
Labels must include the name and address of the producer, product name, ingredients, net weight or volume, and a statement that the product was made in a home kitchen not subject to state inspection. Allergen information is recommended.
Full labeling requirementsShipping, delivery, and direct sales
Direct sales to the consumer are allowed; pickup and local delivery are common. Shipping of cottage foods may be subject to restrictions. Confirm with DATCP before offering shipped orders.
Official resources
Verify current requirements with your state or local authority.
Related compliance resources
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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.