Do you need a license to sell honey in Vermont?

In most cases you can sell pure honey from your own bees in Vermont without a food license.

Home-food exemption below $30,000/yr (Act 42 of 2025): free VDH online training and an annual exemption filing. Above $30,000 needs a license.

What your Vermont honey label must include

Start with the federal basics that apply in every state:

  • The word "Honey" (you can name the floral source, like "Wildflower Honey", if it is the main source)
  • Net weight in both US and metric, in the bottom 30 percent of the front label
  • Your name and address
  • No ingredient list is needed for pure honey; add one the moment you add anything

Then, for Vermont: "Made in a home kitchen not inspected by the Vermont Department of Health" (10-point, contrasting). Infant advisory recommended.

For the full federal rules, including when a nutrition panel is required, see our honey labeling requirements guide.

The official Vermont source

These rules are set by Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (apiary labeling); Dept of Health (home food). This reflects their published guidance; still confirm the current details before printing.

Read the official Vermont guidance.

Quick checklist for Vermont

  • The word "Honey"
  • Net weight in US and metric, bottom 30 percent of the front
  • Your name and address
  • The Vermont statement or disclaimer described above
  • Optional but recommended: "Do not feed honey to infants under one year of age"