Cottage Food Laws in Hillsborough County in Florida

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Hillsborough County in Florida?

It depends. While there are no laws that preclude you from selling food and beverages out of your home in Hillsborough County, Florida, there may be zoning restrictions or local regulations that you must comply with before you can start such a business. Additionally, if you are selling prepackaged food, you will need to obtain a license from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

What is the Cottage Food Law in Hillsborough County in Florida?

The Cottage Food Law in Hillsborough County, Florida, is a set of regulations that allows individuals to produce and sell certain types of food products from their homes. These products must be considered safe for consumption without further processing or refrigeration and must have minimal preparation. These products include jams, jellies, breads, cookies, cakes, pastries, candy, and honey. The Cottage Food Law also requires individuals selling these products to register with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and to adhere to specific labeling and safety requirements.

What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Hillsborough County in Florida?

In Hillsborough County in Florida, required information on a cottage food label must include:
* Product name
* List of ingredients
* Net weight or volume
* Allergen statement
* Name and address of the cottage food operation or home-based business
* Date of production
* Statement that the product is a Cottage Food Product

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Hillsborough County in Florida?

Yes, all food products sold in Hillsborough County, Florida, are subject to state and local sales taxes.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Hillsborough County in Florida?

Yes, you need to establish a business entity to sell cottage foods in Hillsborough County in Florida. In order to operate a cottage food business in Hillsborough County, you must obtain a cottage food permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. You must also register your business with the Florida Department of State as one of several types of business entities, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), corporation, or limited liability partnership (LLP). Depending on the type of entity chosen, you may need to obtain additional licenses and permits to operate your business.

What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Hillsborough County in Florida?

In Hillsborough County, Florida, all individuals who plan to sell food out of their home must obtain a food establishment permit from the county. This permit applies to both temporary and permanent businesses, including catering operations and mobile vendors. Additionally, to legally sell food out of their home, individuals must meet Hillsborough County’s zoning requirements, obtain a business tax receipt from the county’s Tax Collector’s Office, and obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) from the county’s Building Safety Division. Additional permits may be required depending on the type of food being sold.

Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Hillsborough County in Florida?

No, the Hillsborough County Health Department does not require a food handler’s license for cottage food businesses. However, there are other permits and licenses that may be required, depending on the type of food being produced. For more information, please contact the local health department.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Hillsborough County in Florida?

There is no cost to obtain a food safety license or certification in Hillsborough County in Florida. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services provides free online courses to help prepare for a food safety exam. Once successful, the food safety exam must be taken at an approved testing center. The cost for the food safety exam is $35.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Hillsborough County in Florida?

Food safety in Hillsborough County, Florida is regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The FDACS is responsible for enforcing the FDA Food Code, which sets standards for food safety. The Hillsborough County Health Department also has its own rules and regulations that must be followed.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Hillsborough County in Florida?

In Hillsborough County, Florida, a food handlers license is valid for three years from the date of issuance.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Hillsborough County in Florida?

In Hillsborough County, Florida, you need a Mobile Food Vending Permit to operate a food truck. To obtain this permit, you will need to contact the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office. The application requires information about the truck, including its make, model, and year; the type of food being served; and the location of the proposed food truck. You will also need to provide proof of insurance and any necessary permits required by the local government. You also need a Hillsborough County Occupational License for your business and may be required to obtain a license from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Hillsborough County in Florida?

In order to operate a food booth in Hillsborough County, Florida, you will need to obtain permits from both the Hillsborough County Environmental Health Department and the Hillsborough County Tax Collector. The Environmental Health Department requires a temporary food permit for all food booths. The application fee is $107 and you will need to submit a plan review application, a business license, and a current menu. The Tax Collector requires a Street Vendor License for all food booths operating in Hillsborough County. The cost of the Street Vendor License is $20 and you will need to submit a valid driver’s license or state ID, proof of insurance, and a street vendor inspection form.

What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Hillsborough County in Florida?

In order to operate a cottage food business in Hillsborough County, Florida, you need to obtain a foodservice establishment permit and a cottage food permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Additionally, you must obtain a Florida state sales tax permit from the Department of Revenue and any other local permits or licenses that may be required by Hillsborough County or your municipality.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Hillsborough County in Florida?

The penalties for selling food without a permit in Hillsborough County, Florida, are as follows:

1. A $100 fine and a citation for each violation.

2. Potential suspension or revocation of the business permit by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

3. Refusal to issue any future permits or licenses to the business by DBPR.

4. Possible criminal charges for operating without a permit, which could result in jail time and other penalties.