Home Bakery Permit Requirements in South Burlington, VT

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. Vermont Department of Taxes — Sales Tax Registration

   Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Vermont. Vermont charges a 6% state sales tax; meals and lodging are taxed at 9%. Register with the Vermont Department of Taxes online.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online via myVTax)

   Free

   Immediate (online via myVTax)

2. Certified Food Protection Manager Credential (optional in Vermont)

   Vermont does not require a certified food protection manager at any food establishment, including cottage food and home bakery operations. The Department of Health recommends the credential but does not issue it — certification comes from ANSI-accredited private programs such as ServSafe. It remains a sound food-safety practice and some wholesale buyers or venues ask for it.

   Official government source

   $80–$150 through a private ANSI-accredited provider — this is a market price, not a state fee·One to two days for the course and exam

   $80–$150 through a private ANSI-accredited provider — this is a market price, not a state fee

   One to two days for the course and exam

1. Vermont Cottage Food Law

   Under 2025 Act 42, Vermont allows home food production via a two-tier exemption: a Food Processor exemption for gross annual sales under $10,000, and a Cottage Food Operator exemption for gross annual receipts up to $30,000. Non-potentially-hazardous foods (baked goods, jams, candy, etc.) can be sold directly to consumers. Exempt producers must file an annual declaration with the Dept of Health by January 15 and label products with a home-kitchen disclosure statement.

   Official government source

   $0 — no licensing fee for exempt tiers; annual declaration required·File declaration by January 15 annually

   $0 — no licensing fee for exempt tiers; annual declaration required

   File declaration by January 15 annually

2. South Burlington Business Licence (does not exist)

   South Burlington issues no general business licence, business tax certificate, or occupational licence, and none must be renewed annually or displayed. The City's full list of permits, licences and registrations covers only specific categories: liquor licences (issued by the state with City approval), road-closure and public-event approvals and Entertainment Permits through the City Clerk, peddler permits, security alarm registration, pet licences, and the residential rental registry. Zoning permits and Certificates of Occupancy are handled separately by Planning & Zoning, and construction, electrical and kitchen-hood permits by the Fire Department.

   Official government source

   $0 — no general business licence exists·N/A — there is no application to file

   $0 — no general business licence exists

   N/A — there is no application to file

Official Sources

• Vermont Cottage Food Law
• City of South Burlington City Clerk

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