Home Bakery Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a home bakery in Seattle, King County, Washington.

$50 -- $400 1–4 weeks depending on sales volume and permit requirements 6 requirements

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

Seattle / King County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Seattle Business License Tax Certificate

Required for all businesses operating in Seattle, including home-based food businesses. Issued by City of Seattle Finance and Administrative Services. Home bakers selling directly to consumers must hold a current certificate.

$110/year1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

Seattle Home Occupation Permit

Required if you operate a business from a residential property in Seattle. Issued by SDCI. Home bakeries must comply with limitations on signage, customer visits, employees on-site, and storage of commercial goods.

$100–$2502–4 weeks
Official government source

Washington State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Washington State Business License

Required for all businesses in Washington. Issued by the Department of Revenue. Home bakeries selling directly to consumers must also register for state B&O tax.

$19/year1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

WA Cottage Food Law Exemption (up to $25,000/yr)

Washington's Cottage Food Law (RCW 69.22) allows home bakers to sell non-hazardous baked goods directly to consumers without a licensed commercial facility, up to $25,000 in gross annual sales. Allowed foods include breads, cookies, cakes, jams, and similar shelf-stable items. No permit required — just label products correctly with your name, address, and allergen info.

FreeNo waiting period
Official government source
3

WA Dept of Agriculture Food Processor License (over $25,000/yr)

If you exceed $25,000 in annual cottage food sales or wish to sell through retail stores or online platforms, you must obtain a Food Processor License from the WA Department of Agriculture and operate from a licensed commercial kitchen.

$85–$250/year2–4 weeks
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS, obtained instantly online.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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