Farmers Market Licensing Guide

Who needs a license at a farmers market?  Vendors with existing licenses can operate under that license at a farmers market, others need an on-site license, and some types of products are exempt from licensing. See below for more information.

Existing Michigan food establishment licenses extend to the market

• Restaurants do not need a farmers market license (No on-site preparation allowed)
• Grocery stores may sell pre-packaged foods
• Food processors may sell pre-packaged foods

On-site license needed for demos, processing, and certain other vendors

• On-site meal preparation, including cooking demonstrations, require a license
• On-site food processing require a license
• Retail foods that are not pre-packaged require a license
• Out-of-state food establishments require a license
• For questions, please call MDARD at 800-292-39393

Prohibited foods

• Raw milk may not be sold at farmers markets
• Home prepared food may not be sold at farmers markets, unless it follows cottage food guidelines

Sampling is exempt from licensing

• All vendors may offer samples.
• All sampling must follow MDARD sampling guidelines.

Products and vendors exempt from licensing

• Some firms do not require a food establishment license but are still subject to inspection by MDARD or local agencies. It's a good idea to call MDARD at 1-800-292-3939 to verify if you think you are exempt from a food establishment license. View a list of firms exempt from a license.