Home Bakery Permit Requirements in St. Louis, MO

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. Missouri Department of Revenue — Sales Tax License

   Required for all businesses selling taxable goods in Missouri. The state rate is 4.225%; local rates vary by city and county. Register online with the Missouri Department of Revenue.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

2. Missouri 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. Missouri Cottage Food Law

   Missouri allows home-based food production under its Cottage Food Law (RSMo 196.298). Cottage food products (e.g., baked goods, jams/jellies, dried herbs) sold directly to consumers do not require a food establishment license, and local health departments may not regulate cottage food production. Sales must be direct to consumers; online sales are allowed only when both producer and buyer are in Missouri. Products must be labeled with the operation's name and address and a statement that the food is not inspected by the state or local health department.

   Official government source

   Free — no state license or registration required·None (no registration required)

   Free — no state license or registration required

   None (no registration required)

2. City of St. Louis License Collector — Business License

   St. Louis City is an independent city (not part of St. Louis County) and requires a Graduated Business License (GBL) from the License Collector's Office before commencing business. The license must be renewed annually; renewal applications and payment are due before June 1 to avoid penalties.

   Official government source

   $200 initial fee ($100 if starting between January 1 and May 31); annual renewal is graduated by number of St. Louis employees, from $200 (0-2 employees) up to $37,500·1–3 weeks

   $200 initial fee ($100 if starting between January 1 and May 31); annual renewal is graduated by number of St. Louis employees, from $200 (0-2 employees) up to $37,500

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• Missouri Cottage Food Law
• City of St. Louis License Collector

Related Guides