When deciding whether to sell food on Shef, it's important for you to understand the laws in your city and state. As a marketplace, we do not provide legal advice, but we want to provide useful links and information that may help you better understand laws and regulations in New Jersey. This list is not exhaustive and there may be additional requirements or considerations based on your individual circumstances.

In 2021, New Jersey adopted rules creating a cottage food operator permit program. Under the new law, cottage food operators are required to obtain a permit and are limited to preparing non-perishable items such as breads, candy, and fruit pies. For additional examples of allowable foods, please visit the New Jersey Department of Environmental Health website.

Anyone selling through the Shef marketplace is required to follow all state and local rules. If you would like to sell food items that are not covered by these laws, you are required to cook out of a commercial kitchen or other permitted facility.

Shef will determine whether sales tax is applicable, and will collect and remit those sales taxes on behalf of cooks and consumers who use the marketplace.

Additionally, shefs should consult a tax professional regarding their own personal income or other taxes. Cooks may need to obtain a business registration or tax permit depending on where they live, and should check their local city or county website for additional information.

Maintaining the safety of the Shef community is our number one priority. All shefs are required to pass an accredited food safety certification exam, a food quality assessment, and must maintain minimum quality ratings. More information about New Jersey’s food safety permits and training can be found here.