Do you need a license to sell honey in West Virginia?

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

Selling only your own honey from your own bees has reduced requirements; a WVDA permit is needed to sell other people's honey. Beekeepers register with WVDA.

What your West Virginia 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 West Virginia: "This product was produced at a private residence that is exempt from State licensing and inspection. This product may contain allergens." Honey must also show net weight and "Please do not feed to infants under 1 year of age."

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

The official West Virginia source

These rules are set by West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA). This reflects their published guidance; still confirm the current details before printing.

Read the official West Virginia guidance.

Quick checklist for West Virginia

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