Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of Your Home in Illinois?
Yes, you can sell food and beverage out of your home in Illinois, but there are certain requirements you must meet. In order to do so, you must obtain a license from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to operate a home-based food business. This license is known as a Home Kitchen Operation license and includes specific requirements that must be met before operating. These requirements include obtaining a food sanitation manager certification, submitting a completed application with supporting documents, and following IDPH regulations.
What is the Cottage Food Law in Illinois?
The Cottage Food Law in Illinois is a law that allows individuals to make and sell certain types of food products from their home kitchens. The law, which went into effect in January 2012, provides guidelines and restrictions for food producers selling products such as baked goods, candies, jams and jellies. It also requires food producers to obtain a license from the Illinois Department of Public Health and follow certain food safety guidelines.
What is Required on a Cottage Food Label in Illinois?
In Illinois, cottage food labels must include the name and address of the cottage food production operation, the name of the food product, the ingredients used in the product, allergen information, a statement that the product was produced in a home kitchen that is not inspected by the Illinois Department of Public Health or local health department, and storage instructions for the product.
Are Cottage Foods Taxable in Illinois?
Yes, cottage foods produced in Illinois are taxable. All food items sold in Illinois are subject to a 6.25% state sales tax in addition to any applicable local taxes.
Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Cottage Foods in Illinois?
Yes, in order to legally sell cottage foods in Illinois, you must establish a business entity and file for a food service sanitation certificate.
What Permits do You Need to Sell Food out of Your Home in Illinois?
In order to sell food out of your home in the state of Illinois, you must obtain a food service sanitation manager certification (FSSMC) from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and obtain a Temporary Food Establishment Permit (TFE) from the local health department where you will be selling the food. Additionally, if you plan to sell food containing meat, poultry, or dairy products, then you need to obtain a Food Processing Plant License from the IDPH.
Does a Cottage Food Business Need a Food Handlers License in Illinois?
No, a cottage food business does not need a food handlers license in Illinois. However, all cottage food producers must complete an approved food safety education course such as ServSafe before beginning operations. In addition, the cottage food business must register with the local health department and obtain a “Cottage Food Production Operation” license.
How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Illinois?
The cost of obtaining a food safety license or certification in Illinois varies from one type of license to another. Generally, the cost ranges from $15 to $125 for state-specific licenses. For national certifications, such as ServSafe or Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) certifications, the cost can range from $100 to $150.
Who Regulates Food Safety in Illinois?
The Illinois Department of Public Health regulates food safety in the state. The department is responsible for establishing and enforcing state food safety regulations, inspecting food establishments, and investigating outbreaks of foodborne illnesses.
How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Illinois?
A Food Handlers License in Illinois is valid for three years from the date it is issued.
What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Illinois?
To operate a food truck in Illinois, you will need to obtain a Mobile Food Dispatcher permit from the Illinois Department of Public Health. You will also need a Temporary Food Establishment permit from the local health department for each of the counties or municipalities that you plan to operate in. Depending on the location, you may also need a local business license, a peddler’s license, or a special permit to park your food truck on the street.
What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Illinois?
Permits and licenses required to operate a food booth in Illinois vary depending on the type of food being served and the location of the booth. Special permits may also be required for outdoor events or festivals. Generally, all food vendors must obtain a license from the local health department and the Illinois Department of Public Health. Additionally, you may need a business license from the city or county where your booth is located, as well as a special event permit from the State of Illinois.
What Permits do You Need for a Cottage Food Business in Illinois?
In order to legally operate a cottage food business in Illinois, there are several permits that must be acquired. First, you will need to obtain a food handling permit from the Illinois Department of Public Health. Additionally, any business that sells food must register with the Illinois Department of Revenue. Finally, you may need to obtain a business license from your city or county.
What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Illinois?
In Illinois, selling food without a permit is a violation of the Food Sanitation Code and is punishable with fines and potential suspension or revocation of the business’s license. The specific amount of the fine may vary depending on the county; in Cook County, for example, it can range from a minimum of $500 for a first violation up to $2,500 for a fourth or subsequent violation. In other counties, the fines may be lower or higher.
English 
Spanish