What changed in Indiana in 2026?

House Enrolled Act 1424 created homestead vendors, who can sell prepared foods and meat products, effective July 1, 2026.

Do I need a permit to sell meals from home in Indiana?

No state or local license is required for homestead vendors under $1.5 million in sales.

Can I sell to stores?

Homestead vendors sell directly to the end customer. Selling beyond that brings in federal rules.

How to Sell Food From Home in Indiana (2026)

Verified October 26, 2026 from official Indiana sources.

The short answer: Since July 1, 2026, Indiana's new homestead vendor law (House Enrolled Act 1424) lets you sell prepared foods and meat products made at home directly to customers, with no state or local licensing beyond federal law, up to $1.5 million in yearly sales.

iPhone app coming soon.

Book a 15-minute call

Can I sell home-cooked meals in Indiana?

Yes. A homestead vendor is a person who prepares and sells food products or meat products from their property. Sales must go directly to the end customer.

Do I need a license?

No. State and local health agencies cannot add rules, certifications or licenses beyond what federal law requires, as long as you stay under $1.5 million in gross sales. The older home-based vendor law also remains in place as a separate option.

Where and how you can sell

Directly to the end customer only.
From your property or farmers markets.
No sales to customers outside Indiana.
Selling to stores or other businesses brings in federal food rules.

Label requirements

Labels must include your name and state that the product was made by a homestead vendor exempt from government licensing and inspection.

How to get started

Confirm you will sell directly to customers.
Make labels with your name and the required exemption statement.
Check local zoning and business rules.
Apply on Chef Next Door and set up your menu.

Official sources

Indiana Department of Health: Farm and Homestead Food Sales guidance (May 26, 2026)

FAQ

What changed in Indiana in 2026?: House Enrolled Act 1424 created homestead vendors, who can sell prepared foods and meat products, effective July 1, 2026.
Do I need a permit to sell meals from home in Indiana?: No state or local license is required for homestead vendors under $1.5 million in sales.
Can I sell to stores?: Homestead vendors sell directly to the end customer. Selling beyond that brings in federal rules.
What must my label say?: Your name and that the product was made by a homestead vendor exempt from government licensing and inspection.

Ready to sell in Indiana?