Maryland Cottage Food Law: Labeling and Sales Guide
Cottage food regulations for Maryland — sales limits, allowed and prohibited products, labeling requirements, and where you can sell direct-to-consumer.
Quick Answer
Maryland cottage food businesses may sell non-potentially-hazardous foods made at home, up to $50,000 in annual revenue (legislation to raise the cap to $100,000 passed in 2026 but was not yet effective as of mid-2026). Products must be prepackaged and labeled. Sales are allowed at farmers markets, public events, from the residence, and — subject to local rules — online for in-state delivery. SB 701 now permits certain refrigerated baked goods such as cheesecakes and cream pies.
Maryland Cottage Food Law: At a Glance
| Law / Program | Maryland Cottage Food Business |
| Enacted / Last Amended | 2012; refrigerated baked goods added via SB 701; $100,000 cap passed 2026 (pending) |
| Annual Sales Limit | $50,000 per year (bill to raise to $100,000 passed in 2026 but not yet effective as of mid-2026) |
| Statute Citation | COMAR 10.15.03; Md. Code, Health-General |
| Enforcing Agency | Maryland Department of Health (MDH) |
Allowed Cottage Food Products
- ✓Non-perishable baked goods (breads, cookies, cakes, pies, pastries, brownies)
- ✓High-acid jams, jellies, preserves, and fruit butters (pH 4.6 or lower)
- ✓Refrigerated baked goods now allowed under SB 701 (cheesecakes, cream pies, custard pies, meringue pies, fresh fruit tarts)
Products NOT Permitted Under Cottage Food
- ✗Meat, poultry, and fish products
- ✗Low-acid canned goods
- ✗Most dairy products (except as permitted under SB 701)
- ✗Any potentially hazardous food not covered by SB 701
Where You Can Sell
- •Maryland farmers markets
- •Public events and festivals
- •Direct sales from the producer's residence
- •Bake sales and similar direct venues
- •Online for in-state delivery (subject to local health department)
- •NOT permitted: interstate shipping
Maryland Cottage Food Labeling Requirements
- 1Business name and address, or a unique identification number
- 2Product name
- 3Ingredient list in descending order by weight
- 4Net weight or volume
- 5Major allergen disclosure
- 6Statement in 10-point or larger, contrasting text: "Made by a cottage food business that is not subject to Maryland's food safety regulations."
Maryland Cottage Food FAQs
What is Maryland's cottage food sales limit?
$50,000 per year as of mid-2026. A bill to raise the cap to $100,000 passed both chambers in 2026 but was not yet in effect — check the MDH site for the current status before relying on the higher figure.
Can I sell refrigerated baked goods in Maryland?
Yes. SB 701 expanded the allowed list to include certain refrigerated baked goods such as cheesecakes, cream pies, custard pies, meringue pies, and fresh fruit tarts.
Do I need a license for cottage food in Maryland?
No state license is required, but products must be prepackaged and properly labeled. Some counties have additional local requirements, so confirm with your local health department.
Can I sell Maryland cottage food online?
Online sales for in-state delivery are generally allowed, subject to your local health department's rules. Interstate shipping is not permitted.
What disclaimer must my label include?
A statement in at least 10-point, contrasting text: "Made by a cottage food business that is not subject to Maryland's food safety regulations."
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