Cottage Food Operation Permit

Activities including the making of baked goods, standardized jams and jellies, vinegars, and dry mixes

You apply by completing an application form.

$355 for a 2 year permit

Complete application along with:

• Water supply testing
• Food workers card
• Business license
• Sketch of floor plan
• Recipe/processing/packaging/labeling production process
• Equipment and utensils/cleaning and sanitation
• Processing dates and sales plan
• Child and pet management plans
• Check or money order

Yes, the application will be reviewed by a Public Health Advisor to ensure all forms are complete, recipes are low risk and labels meet the label requirements. After your application is approved, you will be contacted by a WSDA Food Safety Compliance Specialist (FSCS) to schedule a visit to ensure food safety standards are being met. Before leaving the facility, the FSCS will leave a copy of the inspection report with you. The inspection report will note any areas that require correction. At that time the inspector will also inform you of your licensing status (pass or fail) and your permit will be emailed or mailed to you shortly thereafter. All subsequent inspections will occur annually.

Approximately 8-10 weeks.

Chapter 69.22 RCW [external link] and Chapter 16-149 WAC [external link]

Permit will expire two years from the date of issuance.

Upon notice by the Department to deny, revoke, or suspend a permit, a person may request a hearing under chapter 34.05 RCW.

WSDA Food Safety Program 
1111 Washington Street SE
Olympia, WA 98504 
Phone: 360-902-1876 
Email: cottagefoods@agr.wa.gov 
Website