Home Bakery / Cottage Food in Durham, North Carolina

Selling baked goods, jams, candies, and other non-hazardous foods from your home kitchen. Here's what you need to know about the rules in Durham.

City Rules (Durham)

Permit Required	Yes — $50
Max Floor Area	25% of home
Employees	Up to 1
Client Visits	Subject to traffic/parking limits
Signage	No exterior signage

Home Bakery / Cottage Food — Specific Requirements

Must comply with state cottage food law (revenue caps, approved food types, labeling)
Generally limited to non-potentially-hazardous foods (baked goods, jams, honey, candy)
Most states require labeling with name, address, and 'Made in a home kitchen' disclaimer
Some states allow direct sales only (farmers markets, online); others allow wholesale

Common Restrictions

Annual revenue cap (varies by state: $25K–$75K typical)
No foods requiring refrigeration in most states
No on-site consumption (customers cannot eat on premises)
Some states require food handler certification

North Carolina Cottage Food Law

Annual Revenue Cap	$50,000
Sales Channels	Direct-to-consumer only
Labeling Required	Yes
State Permit Required	No

North Carolina allows direct sales at farmers markets, roadside stands, and online.

FAQ

Can I start a home bakery / cottage food from home in Durham?

Yes, Durham generally allows home occupations including home bakery / cottage food, subject to the city's standard restrictions (25% floor area, 1 non-resident employees, etc.). A home occupation permit is required.

What permits do I need for a home bakery / cottage food in Durham, NC?

You'll typically need: 1) A home occupation permit from Durham ($50), 2) A general business license, 3) Compliance with North Carolina's cottage food law. Contact the city planning department to confirm.