Can you cater out of your home in NJ?
N.J. residents can now legally sell their home-baked goods. Baking from home for profit is finally legal in New Jersey. The state Department of Health on Monday published a set of rules that will allow bakers and confectioners to apply for a permit to run a “cottage food” business from their very own kitchens.
Is it illegal to sell food from home in NJ?
New Jersey is the only state in the nation that bans the sale of homemade foods for profit out of concerns for health and sanitation. You can sell home-baked goods for charity.
Do I need a license to sell homemade food in NJ?

The state’s Office of Administrative Law published rules Monday that allow residents to sell homemade baked goods so long as they receive a permit as a cottage food operator. New Jersey had been the only state in the country where selling homemade baked goods was illegal.
How do I sell food from home in NJ?
10 Steps to Starting a Food Business in New Jersey
- Check Food Business Name Availability.
- Register Your Food Business.
- Use Your Social Security Number or Apply for a Federal Identification Number.
- Register Your Food Business For Tax Purposes.
- Obtain A Food Safety Certification.
- Get Properly Insured.
Is it legal to run a business from home in NJ?
If you wish to trade from home as a Sole Trader (one person) or Partnership (two or more persons) in Jersey, it is a legal requirement to apply for and obtain a New Business Licence which is issued by the Population Office.

What kind of food can I sell from home?
Coffee, tea, chips and popcorn, muffins and cookies, and jams and honey are among the items, all non-refrigerated, that home-based food entrepreneurs are allowed to sell.
Can I cook food at home and sell it in NJ?
New rules creating a cottage food operator (home baker) permit became effective as of October 4, 2021. New Jersey historically prohibited the sale of home baked goods but has now joined other states in allowing cottage food operations.
How much does a food permit cost in NJ?
FEES & LICENSES SCHEDULE | |
---|---|
FATS AND BONES | $50.00 |
FOOD VENDING MACHINE | $50.00 |
PERMIT OF FOOD VENDING MACHINE | $150.00 |
POOL REGISTRATION | $50.00 |
How much is a food license in NJ?
A fee of $75 is required to obtain the Certificate.
What is considered small business in NJ?
Small businesses are defined as firms employing fewer than 500 employees.
How do I start my own home business in NJ?
- Step 1: Choose the Right Business Idea.
- Step 2: Plan Your New Jersey Business.
- Step 3: Get Funding.
- Step 4: Choose a Business Structure.
- Step 5: Register Your New Jersey Business.
- Step 6: Set up Business Banking, Credit Cards, and Accounting.
- Step 7: Get Insured.
- Step 8: Obtain Permits and Licenses.