Cottage Food Laws in Arizona

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Arizona?

Yes, you can sell food and beverage out of your home in Arizona. You must obtain a Home Occupation Permit from your local government to legally operate a food or beverage business from your home. This permit requires the business to comply with certain zoning regulations, health regulations, and other requirements.

What is the Cottage Food Law in Arizona?

The Cottage Food Law in Arizona, also referred to as the Arizona Family Food Freedom Act, is a law that allows individuals to produce certain food products from their home kitchens for sale to the public. The law permits the production of certain foods that are not potentially hazardous, such as jams, jellies, pickles, baked goods, popcorn, and candy. The law also requires that cottage food operations comply with certain labeling requirements and register with the health department in the county in which they operate.

What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Arizona?

In Arizona, labels for cottage food products must include the following information: the name and address of the cottage food operation, the name of the food, ingredients listed in descending order by predominance by weight (including sub-ingredients, allergens, and artificial colors and flavors), net weight or volume, a statement indicating that the product is home-prepared and not inspected by the Arizona Department of Health Services, a date that indicates when the food was made or packaged (for perishable products only), storage instructions (if applicable), and a list of nutritional information (optional).

Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Arizona?

Yes, cottage foods are taxable in Arizona. All cottage food sales must be reported to the Arizona Department of Revenue on a monthly basis, and the appropriate taxes must be paid.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Arizona?

Yes. In the state of Arizona, businesses that sell cottage foods must register as a cottage food production operation (CFPO) through the government’s Department of Agriculture. A business entity must be established in order to register as a CFPO. The business will need to provide information such as its name, contact information, and legal form.

What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Arizona?

To sell food out of your home in Arizona, you would need a Home Occupation Permit from the local municipality or county where you plan to operate your business. Additionally, you may need a Food Handler’s Card and a Food Establishment Permit issued by the Arizona Department of Health Services. You may also require a License to Sell Services Tax from the Arizona Department of Revenue.

Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Arizona?

No, a cottage food business in Arizona does not need a food handlers license. However, they must follow the Arizona Cottage Food Law and register with the local health department.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Arizona?

The cost of obtaining a food safety license or certification in Arizona depends on the type of license or certification you need. Generally, it will cost between $50 to $150. The Arizona Department of Health Services’ Food Safety Program charges a fee for food safety licenses. The fee varies depending on the type of license and the location of the establishment. For example, a restaurant in Phoenix must pay an annual license fee of $90. If you need a food manager certification, the exam fee is $150.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Arizona?

Food safety in Arizona is regulated by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS). The ADHS regulates food safety through inspections, permits, licenses, and enforcement activities.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Arizona?

A Food Handlers License in Arizona is valid for three years from the date of issuance.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Arizona?

In Arizona, there are several permits that are required for operating a food truck. These include a food truck permit from the state, a health permit from the Department of Health Services (DHS), a business license from the Arizona Department of Revenue, and a food manager certification from the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department. Additionally, food trucks may need approval from local municipalities to operate on public property.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Arizona?

The specific permits and licenses needed for operating a food booth in Arizona depend on the type of food being served and the location of the booth. Generally, you will need a Food Service Establishment Permit and a Mobile Food Unit Permit, both from the Arizona Department of Health Services. You may also need to get a Public Place Food Permit from the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department if your booth is located in Maricopa County. Additionally, you may need a Special Use Permit from a local government or private property owner if you are setting up your food booth in a public location.

What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Arizona?

In Arizona, cottage food production operations must register with the Arizona Department of Health Services. Additionally, a food establishment permit may be required if you plan to sell to restaurants and grocery stores. The Arizona Department of Agriculture also may require a special license if you are selling food products that are not considered “non-potentially hazardous.”

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Arizona?

The penalties for selling food without a permit in Arizona vary depending on the type of food being sold. Generally, people who sell food without a permit can be fined up to $5,000 and/or sentenced to jail time for up to six months. In some cases, local health departments may issue warnings prior to levying fines and/or jail time.