Home Bakery Permit Requirements in Honolulu, HI

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Hawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License

   Hawaii does not have a traditional sales tax but requires all businesses to pay a General Excise Tax (GET) on gross income from business activities. The GET rate is 4% (4.5% in Honolulu). All businesses must register for a GET license with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.

   Official government source

   $20 (one-time registration fee)·2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)

   $20 (one-time registration fee)

   2–4 weeks (by mail) or immediate (in-person)

2. Hawaii Department of Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

   While cottage food producers may be exempt from food manager certification, it is strongly recommended for food safety best practices.

   Official government source

   $80–$150·1–2 days

   $80–$150

   1–2 days

1. Hawaii Cottage Food Law

   Hawaii allows home food production under its Cottage Food Exemption. Non-potentially hazardous foods can be sold directly to consumers. Products must be labeled with the producer's name, address, and required information.

   Official government source

   Free to $50 (varies by state)·1–2 weeks (if registration required)

   Free to $50 (varies by state)

   1–2 weeks (if registration required)

2. City and County of Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services — Business License

   Honolulu requires a City business registration and applicable permits from the Department of Planning and Permitting in addition to the state GET license. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

   $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues·1–3 weeks

   $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• Hawaii Cottage Food Law
• City and County of Honolulu Department of Budget and Fiscal Services

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