Home Bakery (Cottage Food) Permit Requirements in Austin, TX
Everything you need to know about permits and licenses for starting a home bakery (cottage food) in Austin, Travis County, Texas.
Important Disclaimer
This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Permit requirements, fees, and timelines may change. Always verify current requirements directly with your local government authority before making business decisions.
Last verified:
Estimated Total Cost
$10 – $100
Estimated Timeline
1-2 days (mostly just completing food handler training and confirming zoning)
Austin / Travis County Requirements
Austin Development Services — Home Occupation Compliance
Austin's Land Development Code allows cottage food production operations as a home occupation. You do not need a permit, but your operation must comply with home occupation rules: no external signage, no employees on-site beyond household members, and no customer visits that disrupt neighborhood character. Verify your zoning allows home occupation via Austin's Zoning and Cases search tool.
Texas State Requirements
Texas Cottage Food Operation (No Permit Required)
Under Texas Health and Safety Code §437 (as amended by SB 541, effective September 1, 2025), no state or local permit, license, inspection, or fee is required for cottage food operations selling non-TCS foods directly to consumers. You may sell baked goods, cakes, cookies, candy, jam, and similar non-potentially hazardous foods. Annual gross sales cap is $150,000.
Texas Food Handler Card
Required for all cottage food operators. Must complete a DSHS-accredited food handler training course and keep the certificate on file. Available online from multiple providers.
DSHS Registration (for TCS Foods only)
If you sell time/temperature control for safety (TCS) foods — such as cheesecakes, cream pies, or custard-filled pastries — you must register with DSHS. Effective September 1, 2025. Registration is free and requires date-of-production labeling and safe-handling instructions on packaging.
Texas Sales Tax Permit
Required if selling taxable items. Most baked goods sold for off-premise consumption may be exempt; goods sold for immediate consumption are taxable. Consult the Texas Comptroller for your specific situation.
Federal Requirements
EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if operating as an LLC or if you have employees. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
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