Starting a home based baking business?

You can -- provided that what you have will pass your state's home processing inspection (yes, there will be an inspection). Most states require a commercial grade kitchen, so if that is what you will build in your shack, you've got a strong chance of getting approved -- though I highly doubt that you can build a commercial kitchen in a shed You have to check with your state if the kitchen you will build in your shack will pass muster. Also, check for other state requirements. Some states require a written plan on: - ingredients used and the suppliers - plan for storage of supplies, equipment and processed products - general production flow, including procedures and equipment used - planned way to transport the products - potential locations where you will sell the products (local businesses, farmers market, etc) Putting your own business in a separate portion of your property is actually good for tax purposes. IRS allows you to deduct home business expenses provided that your place of business is dedicated solely to business (e.g. you only cook food for your business, not for your daily meals). http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=108138,00.html

You can -- provided that what you have will pass your state's home processing inspection (yes, there will be an inspection). Most states require a commercial grade kitchen, so if that is what you will build in your shack, you've got a strong chance of getting approved -- though I highly doubt that you can build a commercial kitchen in a shed You have to check with your state if the kitchen you will build in your shack will pass muster. Also, check for other state requirements. Some states require a written plan on: - ingredients used and the suppliers - plan for storage of supplies, equipment and processed products - general production flow, including procedures and equipment used - planned way to transport the products - potential locations where you will sell the products (local businesses, farmers market, etc) Putting your own business in a separate portion of your property is actually good for tax purposes. IRS allows you to deduct home business expenses provided that your place of business is dedicated solely to business (e.g. you only cook food for your business, not for your daily meals). http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=108138,00.html

Emma, please check with your zoning department and the regulatory agency that inspects the home food processor's kitchen in your state. I can tell you now that a shed may not pass an inspection because it is not a solid dwelling. Will you have water, ovens, there are safety regulations that do not apply to operating from your home kitchen. Contact the regulator agency first before you do anything, I have not heard about anyone being able to prepare food commercially from a temporary facility such as this...tread carefully.

Contact your local board of health.