District of Columbia Cottage Food Law

Complete Guide to Selling Homemade Food in District of Columbia (2026)

Everything you need to know about the DC Cottage Food Regulations — revenue limits, permits, allowed products, online sales, and how to start your home food business.

$25,000

Revenue Limit

Annual limit under cottage food law

In-Person Only

Online Sales

Direct sales at markets and events

Yes

Permit Required

Cottage food business license — $50–$100

tightly regulated

Regulation Level

District of Columbia is considered tightly regulated for home food

What You Can Sell in District of Columbia

baked goods

candy

jams

jellies

honey

Prohibited Products

meat

dairy

fermented foods

Always verify current allowed products with your local health department, as regulations can change.

District of Columbia Requirements Checklist

Here's what you need to start selling homemade food in District of Columbia under the DC Cottage Food Regulations
Cottage food business license Required

Cost: $50–$100. Apply through your state agriculture department.

Apply
Food Handler Certification Required

Available through online courses — typically $10–$15.

Get Certified
No Kitchen Inspection Needed

District of Columbia allows you to use your home kitchen without inspection.

Labeling Requirements

Producer name and address

Ingredients list

Allergen statement

"Not inspected by DC Health" disclaimer

Where You Can Sell in District of Columbia

Direct Sales (from home)

Allowed in District of Columbia

Online Sales (website)

Not permitted under District of Columbia cottage food law

Farmers Markets

Allowed in District of Columbia

Wholesale to Stores

Not permitted under District of Columbia cottage food law

Start Your Home Food Business in District of Columbia

Explore city-specific guides with local market data and business type recommendations

Farmers Markets in District of Columbia

District of Columbia allows cottage food sales at farmers markets — here are popular venues
Eastern Market

Saturday, Sunday · Year-round

Washington, Capitol Hill

FRESHFARM Dupont Circle

Sunday · Year-round

Washington, Dupont Circle

FRESHFARM H Street NE

Saturday · April–December

Washington, H Street NE

Columbia Heights Farmers Market

Saturday · April–December

Washington, Columbia Heights

Food Events in District of Columbia

Taste of DC
October
Washington

Pennsylvania Avenue food festival featuring DC's best restaurants and food artisans.

Visit Website
DC VegFest
September
Washington

Plant-based food festival on the National Mall with local vendors and food makers.

Capital Food Fight
November
Washington

Annual culinary competition and food festival benefiting DC Central Kitchen.

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