Selling Baked Goods from home?

Published on 09 January 2026

Do you sell cakes, biscuits, juices, baked goods or homemade preserves from your home kitchen? You might not know that you’re legally required to hold a Food Business Licence with Council.

This is a requirement under Queensland State law to ensure all food sold to the public is safe and meets health standards.

Local Councils have been given the responsibility to implement these State Government regulations, which apply to all food businesses, including home-based operations.

Why is a Food Business Licence Important?

Having a Food Business Licence helps ensure that:

• The premises and the operator are suitable for food preparation,
• Hygiene standards are maintained,
• Food is stored and handled safely,
• The premises are kept clean and safe for food production.

These food safety requirements exist to protect the community and ensure the public is purchasing safe food. As a customer, it’s your right to ask to see a Food Business Licence when purchasing foods made in a home based kitchen - this guarantees the business is meeting its food safety obligations.

Starting or already running your own Home-Based Food Business?

Running your own food business is exciting, but there are legal requirements you need to follow. If you're selling food from home or at markets - or planning to - contact Council to make sure you receive the correct food licence.

Environmental Health Officers are here to help and guide you through the process and answer your food safety questions.  A licence gives you and your customers confidence that your food is prepared safely and legally.

Let’s work together to meet food safety standards and protect our community!

For more information or assistance, contact Council’s Environmental Health team on 1300 007 662.