Home Bakery (Cottage Food) Permit Requirements in Houston, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a home bakery (cottage food) in Houston, Harris County, Texas.

$10 -- $150 1-2 weeks (mostly just completing food handler training) 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Houston / Harris County Requirements

1 requirement
1

City of Houston Business License

General business registration with the City of Houston. Required for all businesses operating within city limits, including home-based cottage food operations.

$50-$100/year1-2 weeks
Official government source

Texas State Requirements

4 requirements
1

Texas Cottage Food Operation (No Permit Required)

Under Texas cottage food law, no state permit, license, or inspection is required for cottage food operations. Local governments cannot require fees, permits, or inspections solely for cottage food. You can sell baked goods, candy, jams, and other non-TCS foods directly to consumers.

Free (no permit needed)N/A
Official government source
2

Texas Food Handler Card

Required for all cottage food operators. Must complete a DSHS-accredited food handler training course. Available online from multiple providers.

$7-$152-4 hours online
Official government source
3

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. Requires date-of-production labeling and safe-handling instructions.

Free1-2 weeks
Official government source
4

Texas Sales Tax Permit

Required if selling taxable items. Most baked goods sold for immediate consumption are taxable; however, many cottage food items sold for off-premise consumption may be exempt. Consult the Texas Comptroller for specifics.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source

Official Sources

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