Cottage Food Laws in Wake County in North Carolina

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Wake County in North Carolina?

Yes, Wake County in North Carolina allows individuals to sell food and beverage products from their home with the proper permits and licenses. For more information, contact the Wake County Department of Environmental Services who can provide more information about the permitting process.

What is the Cottage Food Law in Wake County in North Carolina?

The Cottage Food Law in Wake County, North Carolina is a law that allows individuals to prepare certain food items in their home kitchens and sell them directly to the public. This law allows individuals with a valid food handler’s permit to produce a variety of food items such as baked goods, jams, jellies, pickles, sauces, and other canned items. All food items must be non-potentially hazardous and must be sold directly to the consumer without the need for further processing or additional preparation. These foods must be labeled with the name of the product, ingredients, weight, name and address of producer, date of production, the statement “Made in a Home Kitchen” and other specific information required by the health department.

What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Wake County in North Carolina?

In Wake County, North Carolina, cottage food labels must include the cottage food operator’s name, address, and telephone number; the product’s name; the ingredients; instructions for preparation, storage, and use; the date of production; and a warning that the product is produced in a home kitchen that is not subject to inspection by the Wake County Health Department.

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Wake County in North Carolina?

Yes, cottage foods are taxable in Wake County in North Carolina. Sales of cottage foods are subject to the Wake County Sales and Use Tax, which is currently 4.75%.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Wake County in North Carolina?

Yes, you must establish a business entity to sell cottage foods in Wake County, North Carolina. To do so, you must register with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, complete the appropriate paperwork, and pay a filing fee. The type of business entity you choose will depend on your business needs and goals.

What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Wake County in North Carolina?

In Wake County, North Carolina, you must have a Cottage Food Operation Permit from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture to sell food out of your home that is non-potentially hazardous. The permit costs $50 and must be renewed annually. You must also obtain a Home Occupancy Permit from the county (fees vary) and comply with health department regulations and obtain a food service permit (in some cases). Additionally, you must have your kitchen inspected and approved by the Wake County Environmental Health Authority prior to selling any food.

Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Wake County in North Carolina?

No, a cottage food business does not need a food handlers license in Wake County, North Carolina. However, cottage food businesses are subject to certain regulations and must register with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Wake County in North Carolina?



The exact cost of obtaining a food safety license or certification in Wake County, North Carolina varies greatly depending on the type of license or certification needed and the requirements of the particular food establishment. Generally, food safety licenses or certifications cost between $100 and $600, with most falling within the $200 to $400 range.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Wake County in North Carolina?

Food safety in Wake County, North Carolina is regulated by the Wake County Environmental Health Branch of the Wake County Department of Human Services.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Wake County in North Carolina?

Food handler cards issued by the Wake County Health Department are valid for 3 years.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Wake County in North Carolina?

In order to run a food truck in Wake County, North Carolina, you will need to obtain several permits and approvals. These include a Mobile Food Unit (MFU) permit from the Wake County Department of Environmental Services, a Certificate of Occupancy from the Wake County Zoning Office, a Food Establishment Permit from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and a Business License from the Wake County Tax Office. Additionally, businesses may need to secure a special event permit from the local jurisdiction when serving food at an event.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Wake County in North Carolina?

In order to operate a food booth in Wake County, North Carolina, you will need to obtain a Food Booth Permit from the County’s Environmental Services Department. The permit will require a copy of a valid business license, proof of insurance liability coverage, and a plan that outlines the layout of the booth, including any food preparation areas and storage. Additionally, you will need to submit a menu listing all food items offered for sale, accompanied by copies of any recipes or ingredients labels. Finally, an inspection of the booth by the Environmental Services Department must be successfully passed prior to the start of business.

What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Wake County in North Carolina?

In Wake County, North Carolina, you need a cottage food permit issued by the Wake County Department of Environmental Services in order to open a cottage food business. In order to obtain the permit, you must submit a completed application and meet all applicable regulations and requirements. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The application fee is $100. Additionally, you need a permit from the Wake County Health Department to operate a food truck if you plan to sell food from a food truck.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Wake County in North Carolina?

In Wake County, North Carolina, it is a misdemeanor to operate a food establishment without a permit from the Wake County Environmental Services Department. Penalties for selling food without a permit include a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 30 days in jail. Additionally, the court may require that the establishment be closed until it obtains a valid permit.