Cottage Food Laws in Pinellas County in Florida

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

Yes, you can sell food and beverage out of your home in Pinellas County, Florida, with a Temporary Food Service Permit issued by the Pinellas County Health Department. If you’re planning to prepare, package, or serve food and beverages at your home for the public, you will need to apply for a permit and meet the requirements set by the county.

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

The Cottage Food Law in Pinellas County, Florida was enacted in 2013 and allows for individuals to sell certain non-potentially hazardous home-prepared foods in certain quantities directly to consumers out of their home. Cottage food operators must register with the local health department, ensure that all products meet labeling requirements, and may only sell certain products as defined by the law. These products include baked goods, breads, jams, jellies, pickles, popcorn and candy.

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

In Pinellas County, Florida, a cottage food label must include:
1. The name of the product
2. A list of ingredients
3. The name and address of the cottage food operation
4. A statement that the product was made in a home kitchen not inspected by the state or local health department
5. The net weight, volume, or count
6. An allergens statement, if the product contains any common allergens.

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Pinellas County in Florida?

Yes, cottage foods sold in Pinellas County are subject to the 6% Florida state sales tax. Food items not subject to sales tax include unprepared fruits and vegetables, items sold at a bona fide charity event, and food products sold at an agricultural or seafood market.

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

Yes, you need to establish a business entity to legally sell cottage foods in Pinellas County, Florida. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), all cottage food operators must obtain a food establishment license prior to selling any cottage food products. Additionally, individuals who intend to operate a cottage food business must register the business name with the Florida Division of Corporations as either a limited liability company or other type of business entity.

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

In Pinellas County, Florida, anyone wishing to sell food out of their home must first obtain a permit from the Department of Health. This includes a food service permit, a vending machine permit, or a temporary event permit. Depending on the type of food being sold, additional permits may be required. For example, those who are selling seafood must also obtain a Fishery Products Dealer License from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

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

No, a cottage food business does not need a food handlers license in Pinellas County, Florida. However, the state of Florida does require that cottage food businesses complete a food safety course before selling any products.

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

The cost to obtain a food safety license or certification in Pinellas County, Florida varies depending on the type of license or certification you are seeking. For example, the cost of an 8-hour food manager’s certificate is typically between $90 and $175. The cost of a 2-year Food Handler’s certification is typically between $20 and $30. For more information, you can contact the Pinellas County Health Department at (727) 824-6900.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Pinellas County in Florida?

The Pinellas County Environmental Management Division (EMD) is responsible for regulating food safety in Pinellas County, Florida. The EMD is part of the Pinellas County Department of Health, and is responsible for inspecting local restaurants and other food establishments to ensure that they are in compliance with health and safety regulations.

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

Food handler licenses in Pinellas County, Florida, must be renewed annually.

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

Pinellas County in Florida requires a Mobile Food Vendor Permit in order to operate a food truck within the county. This permit can be obtained through the Pinellas County Health Department, and the application process includes submitting an application, a diagram of the food truck, proof of insurance and applicable fees. Additionally, food truck vendors must comply with local zoning laws and any other applicable state or federal regulations.

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

In order to run a food booth in Pinellas County, Florida, you will need to obtain both a Business Tax Receipt and a Mobile Food Establishment Permit from Pinellas County.

You must first submit an online application for the Business Tax Receipt, which will include information such as the business’s address and owner, as well as the type of operations being conducted. Once the application has been submitted, the County will review it and issue a certificate with the Tax Receipt number.

The second permit required for your food booth is the Mobile Food Establishment Permit, which is issued by the Pinellas County Department of Health. You will need to submit an application for this permit along with a copy of your approved Business Tax Receipt. You will also need to include information about the type of food being sold, the proposed menu, and any applicable health inspections. Once your application is approved, you will receive your permit.

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

In Pinellas County, Florida, a cottage food business must obtain a food permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The food permit must be renewed annually and is available for businesses selling products that are non-potentially hazardous and do not require refrigeration. The permit costs $50 per year. The business must also have a separate kitchen in the home dedicated to the cottage business and must pass an inspection by the department prior to receiving the permit. Additionally, the business must obtain a Business Tax Receipt from the county in which they are located and register with the local health department.

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

Selling food without a permit in Pinellas County, Florida is a misdemeanor offense. If convicted, the penalties can include up to 60 days in jail and/or a $500 fine. Additionally, the offender may be required to pay court costs and any other fees associated with the case.