- Home occupation permit required:
- Conditional
- Details:
- Florida state preemption (§500.80(6)) prevents local governments from restricting cottage food operations. However, home-based business rules under §559.955 may still apply in Highlands County. Highlands County may have general home occupation/zoning rules applicable to the business operation aspect. No specific Highlands County cottage food restriction identified.
- Home kitchen:
- Florida uses a broad non-TCS standard — any food that does not require time/temperature control for safety is allowed. Annual sales cap of $250,000 (raised in 2021). No registration, permit, or inspection required before beginning operations. Strong state preemption clause (§500.80(6)) — local governments cannot restrict cottage food operations, though business must comply with home-based business rules under §559.955.
Last verified 2026-05-05. Not legal advice.
