A Cottage Food Establishment is a home‑based food business where operators prepare approved non‑TCS foods in their residential kitchens for direct sale to consumers. Delaware’s program supports small business owners by ensuring sanitary standards are met while keeping the barrier to entry low.

What Cottage Food Establishments Can Produce

Cottage Food Establishment permits allow only traditional bakery‑style items that are non‑TCS and do not contain cannabis. Non‑TCS foods are items that do not require refrigeration or hot holding to remain safe.

Allowable Products

  • Cakes
  • Cookies
  • Breads and rolls
  • Muffins
  • Brownies
  • Fruit pies
  • Pastries
  • Fudge
  • Lollipops
  • Chocolates
  • Tortes
  • Hard candies
  • Jams, jellies, and fruit preserves (approved process required)

Not Allowed

  • Cream‑filled pastries
  • Meats or meat‑filled pies
  • Soups
  • Salads
  • Sandwiches
  • Soft cheeses
  • Cannabis‑infused products
  • Additional restricted items

If you’re unsure whether your product qualifies, contact the Office of Food Protection.

Program Overview

Cottage Food Establishments are regulated by two groups within Health Systems Protection:

Office of Food Protection

Manages Cottage Food Establishment Plan Reviews.
Learn more

Environmental Health Field Services

Conducts inspections for Cottage Food Establishments.
Learn more

Both offices operate within the Health Systems Protection Section.

Forms and Information

Contact Information

New Castle County

University Office Plaza – Chopin Building
258 Chapman Rd, Suite 105
Newark, DE 19702
Phone: 302‑283‑7110

Kent County

James Williams State Service Center
805 River Rd, Suite 5
Dover, DE 19901
Phone: 302‑744‑1220

Sussex County

Stockley Center
26351 Patriots Way, Bldg 101 Lloyd Ln
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: 302‑933‑3440

Additional HSP Services

  • Plumbing
  • Mobile Health Unit
  • Body Art
  • Public Water Systems

Quick Links

  • Food Establishments Plan Review Packet
  • Mobile Unit Packet
  • Cottage Food
  • Temporary Food Establishments
  • Certified Food Protection Manager
  • Inspection Reports