Complete Guide to Selling Homemade Food in Virginia (2026)
Everything you need to know about the Virginia Cottage Food Law — 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
No
Permit Required
Start selling right away
moderately regulated
Regulation Level
Virginia is considered moderately regulated for home food
What You Can Sell in Virginia
baked goods
candy
jams
jellies
honey
popcorn
dried herbs
Prohibited Products
meat
dairy
canned foods
Always verify current allowed products with your local health department, as regulations can change.
Virginia Requirements Checklist
Here's what you need to start selling homemade food in Virginia under the Virginia Cottage Food Law
No Permit Needed
Virginia does not require a permit for cottage food operations.
No Food Handler Cert Needed
Virginia does not require a food handler certification.
No Kitchen Inspection Needed
Virginia allows you to use your home kitchen without inspection.
Labeling Requirements
Producer name and address
Product name and ingredients
"Not inspected by the Virginia Department" disclaimer
Where You Can Sell in Virginia
Direct Sales (from home)
Allowed in Virginia
Online Sales (website)
Not permitted under Virginia cottage food law
Farmers Markets
Allowed in Virginia
Wholesale to Stores
Not permitted under Virginia cottage food law
Start Your Home Food Business in Virginia
Explore city-specific guides with local market data and business type recommendations
Home Food Business Types in Virginia
Start any of these home food businesses under the Virginia Cottage Food Law
Start Your Virginia Home Food Business — $4.99/Month
Professional website, online ordering, payments, shipping, loyalty programs, and AI marketing tools — everything you need to comply with the Virginia Cottage Food Law and grow your business.
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