Verified October 29, 2026 from official Rhode Island sources.
The short answer: Rhode Island requires a cottage food registration from the Department of Health, $65 per year, plus a food safety course. Only baked goods that do not need refrigeration are allowed, up to $50,000 a year. You can take orders online, by mail or by phone, but you or your designee must deliver in person within the state.
iPhone app coming soon.
No. Only shelf-stable baked goods.
Double crust pies, yeast breads, biscuits, brownies, cookies, muffins, shelf-stable cakes, and other baked goods the department defines.
$65 per year with a notarized affidavit. The department may inspect at any time.
A food safety manager course, an ANSI approved food handler course, or another department-approved course.
Up to $50,000 per calendar year.
Orders online, by mail and by phone, delivered in person by you or your designee within Rhode Island. No consignment, wholesale, grocery stores, restaurants or schools.
At least 10-point type:
Made by a Cottage Food Business Registrant that is not Subject to Routine Government Food Safety Inspection
Plus name, address, phone, ingredients and allergens.
iPhone app coming soon.
Related: Permits by state · Massachusetts · Connecticut · New York
This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and can differ by city and county. Confirm with your state or local health or agriculture department before you sell.