Arizona Cottage Food Law: Labeling and Sales Guide
Cottage food regulations for Arizona — sales limits, allowed and prohibited products, labeling requirements, and where you can sell direct-to-consumer.
Quick Answer
Arizona's Home Baker Program permits direct-to-consumer sales of certain shelf-stable foods from home kitchens without an annual sales cap. Operators must register with the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), complete food safety training, and follow specific labeling rules. Sales venues include farmers markets, roadside stands, in-person at the producer's residence, and online for delivery within Arizona. Wholesale and interstate sales require commercial licensing.
Arizona Cottage Food Law: At a Glance
| Law / Program | Arizona Home Baker Program |
| Enacted / Last Amended | 2011 (original); 2018 expansion |
| Annual Sales Limit | No state-imposed annual sales cap |
| Statute Citation | A.R.S. §36-136; AZ Administrative Code R9-8-101 et seq. |
| Enforcing Agency | Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) |
Allowed Cottage Food Products
- ✓Baked goods (cookies, bread, cakes without perishable fillings)
- ✓Candy and confections
- ✓Jams, jellies, fruit butters (high-acid)
- ✓Honey, syrups
- ✓Dried fruits, herbs, vegetables
- ✓Dry mixes and seasonings
- ✓Granola, popcorn
- ✓Roasted coffee, dried tea
Products NOT Permitted Under Cottage Food
- ✗Meat, poultry, fish products
- ✗Dairy products requiring refrigeration
- ✗Cream- and custard-filled baked goods
- ✗Low-acid canned vegetables
- ✗Pet treats
- ✗Alcoholic beverages
Where You Can Sell
- •Direct sales at the producer's home
- •Arizona farmers markets and roadside stands
- •Local fairs, festivals, food events
- •Online sales for delivery within Arizona
- •NOT permitted: wholesale to retailers or restaurants for resale
- •NOT permitted: interstate shipping
Arizona Cottage Food Labeling Requirements
- 1Product name
- 2Producer's name and address
- 3Net weight or volume
- 4Ingredient list in descending order by weight
- 5Allergen disclosure per FALCPA + FASTER Act
- 6Disclaimer: "This product was produced in a home kitchen that is not subject to public health inspection."
- 7ADHS Home Baker Program registration number
Arizona Cottage Food FAQs
How do I register for the Arizona Home Baker Program?
Submit an application to the Arizona Department of Health Services with your name, address, products list, and proof of food safety training completion. ADHS processes registrations within 30 days. Registration fees are typically $25-100 annually depending on your county.
Why doesn't Arizona cap cottage food sales?
Arizona, like Ohio, Virginia, and North Carolina, uses sales-channel restrictions instead of sales caps. This gives successful home-based food operations significant growth runway within Arizona without crossing a regulatory cliff.
Does Arizona require food safety training?
Yes. Home bakers must complete an ADHS-approved food safety course before registering. Online courses are available for $10-30 from approved providers. The training covers food handling, allergens, sanitation, and labeling.
Can I sell at Phoenix or Tucson farmers markets?
Yes — Arizona cottage food law applies statewide including Phoenix, Tucson, and other metros. Most local markets accept ADHS-registered home bakers, though individual market managers may have additional requirements.
Can I sell to grocery stores or restaurants in Arizona?
No. The Home Baker Program restricts sales to direct-to-consumer only. Selling wholesale requires a Food Manufacturer license from ADHS or commercial food permit.
Are there restrictions on online sales in Arizona?
Online sales are permitted for delivery within Arizona. Producers must arrange direct delivery (in-person handoff or Arizona-based courier service). Shipping via USPS or commercial carriers across state lines is not permitted under cottage food rules.
Related Guides for Cottage Food Producers
Homemade Food Labels
What's required on cottage food labels even when nutrition facts panels are exempt.
FDA Small Business Exemption
When the FDA waives nutrition label requirements — federal rules layered on top of state cottage food laws.
Allergen Labeling Rules
FALCPA + FASTER Act: the 9 major allergens that must be disclosed on every food label — including cottage food.
Scaling Beyond Cottage Food?
When you exceed your state's cottage food limit or move to retail distribution, you need a full FDA Nutrition Facts label. Generate one free in 3 minutes.
Open Free Generator