Is my kitchen inspected?

Yes, by WSDA before the permit is issued.

Can I sell meals from home in Washington?

No. Only specific non-perishable foods are allowed.

How to Sell Food From Home in Washington (2026)

Verified October 26, 2026 from official Washington sources.

The short answer: Washington requires a Cottage Food Permit from the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) before you sell. It costs $355 for two years, includes a home kitchen inspection, and limits sales to $35,000 a year. Home-cooked meals are not allowed.

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Can I sell home-cooked meals in Washington?

No. Washington's cottage food permit only covers specific non-perishable foods, like baked goods, jams, jellies, vinegars and dry mixes.

Permit requirements

$355 application fee for a two-year permit (nonrefundable)
A food worker card
Water testing if you use a private well
A business license
A floor plan sketch, recipes and production process, labels, sanitation plan, sales plan, and child and pet management plans
A WSDA home kitchen inspection

You can only make the products listed on your permit.

How much can I sell?

Up to $35,000 in gross sales per year.

Where and how you can sell

Directly to the consumer only.
No sales to stores or restaurants.

How to get started

Get a food worker card.
Prepare your application package (floor plan, recipes, labels, plans).
Submit the application with the $355 fee to WSDA.
Pass the home kitchen inspection.
Once your permit arrives, apply on Chef Next Door.

Official sources

WSDA: Cottage Food Operation

FAQ

How much is a cottage food permit in Washington?: $355 for two years.
What is the sales limit?: $35,000 in gross sales per year.
Is my kitchen inspected?: Yes, by WSDA before the permit is issued.
Can I sell meals from home in Washington?: No. Only specific non-perishable foods are allowed.

Ready to sell in Washington?