Home Bakery Permit Requirements in Charleston, SC

Complete permit and license guide for starting a home bakery in Charleston, Charleston County, South Carolina.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $100–$400 est. 1–3 weeks
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of South Carolina

2 stops

  1. South Carolina Department of Revenue — Retail License

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in South Carolina. South Carolina charges a 6% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3% more. A $50 one-time license fee applies.

    Official government source

    $50 one-timeImmediate (online via MyDORWAY)

  2. South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control — Food Protection 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–$1501–2 days

City of Charleston / Charleston County

2 stops

  1. South Carolina Cottage Food Law

    South Carolina allows home food production under its Cottage Food Law (SC Code 44-1-143). Non-potentially hazardous foods can be sold directly to consumers without a food facility license. Annual gross sales are limited to $15,000. Products must carry appropriate labels.

    Official government source

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

  2. City of Charleston Revenue Collections Division — Business License

    Charleston requires an annual Business License for any business operating within city limits, with fees based on gross revenues. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $100–$400 · 1–3 weeks

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Official Sources

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