If you operate a farm market, roadside stand or seasonal tent for the purposes of selling your farm products to the public, it is important to comply with specific local and state requirements. There are exceptions, but it is important to know the requirements before you open your market or stand.

In addition to any required licenses, there are “best practices” called Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs) for the production of farm products and sales of farm products at farm markets through Michigan’s Right to Farm Act (RTFA).

What is Michigan’s Right to Farm Act and GAAMPs?
The Michigan Right to Farm Act is a state law designed to protect farms and farm operations from nuisance lawsuits and certain local regulations when they are operating according to accepted agricultural practices. The law was enacted in 1981 as Public Act 93.

This state law authorizes the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development to develop and adopt Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs) for farms and farm operations in Michigan.  These farm management practices are scientifically based, kept current, and promote sound environmental stewardship on Michigan farms.

These guidelines were adopted and are renewed annually by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development. Farmers who voluntarily follow these GAAMPs are offered some protection from nuisance lawsuits over matters such as noise, odor,
dust and even operating a farm market, as long as the farmers comply with the practices.

In 1999, the Right to Farm Act was amended which gave farmers a uniform statewide standard. Local governments are legally prohibited from enacting or enforcing zoning ordinances, regulations, or resolutions that conflict with or duplicate the state’s GAAMPs.

“Beginning June 1, 2000, except as otherwise provided in this section, it is the
express legislative intent that this act preempt any local ordinance, regulation, or
resolution that purports to extend or revise in any manner the provisions of this act
or generally accepted agricultural and management practices developed under this
act. Except as otherwise provided in this section, a local unit of government shall
not enact, maintain, or enforce an ordinance, regulation, or resolution that conflicts in
any manner with this act or generally accepted agricultural and management
practices developed under this act.” MICHIGAN RIGHT TO F ARM ACT Act 93 of
1981, 286.474, Sect. 4 (6), Michigan Legislature

There are a variety of GAAMPs covering: manure management and utilization, care of farm animals, nutrient utilization, irrigation, pesticide utilization, cranberry production, site selection and odor control for livestock, and farm markets. GAAMPs are tools designed to help producers make appropriate management decisions for their farm. The farm market GAAMPs, along with the GAAMPs for site selection and odor control for livestock, are the two that most often concern local governments.

The GAAMPs are developed and reviewed by volunteer subject matter experts who serve on the individual GAAMPs advisory committees. Changes originate from annual reviews, complaints and suggestions received from public comment, and court cases.

The proposed updates are reviewed and approved annually by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development. The GAAMPs are available on the MDARD website. Please also visit MDARD’s RTFA website for more information about the RTFA.

In Michigan, the Farm Market GAAMPs were adopted in 2010 and were developed to provide guidance as to what constitutes an on farm market and farm market activities. It contains definitions of a farm market, farm products, and specific physical
characteristics of a farm market.

What is a Farm Market? The Farm Market GAAMPs defines a farm market as “a year-round or seasonal location where transactions and marketing activities between farm market operators and customers take place.”

It also states:

• A farm market may be a physical structure such as a building or tent, or simply an area where a transaction between a customer and a farmer is made.
• The farm market does not have to be a physical structure.
• The farm market must be located on property owned or controlled (e.g., leased) by the producer of the products offered for sale on the market.
• Fresh products as well as processed products may be sold at the farm market.
• At least 50 percent of the farm products offered must be produced on and by the affiliated farm measured by retail floor space during peak production season, or 50 percent of the average gross sales for up to the previous five years or as outlined in a business plan.
• Processed products will be considered as produced on and by the farm if at least 50 percent of the product’s primary or namesake ingredient was produced on and by the farm, such as apples used in apple pie, maple sap in maple syrup, strawberries in strawberry jam, etc.

Other Definitions
The Farm Market GAAMPs also defines farm products, marketing activities, and processed products, and provides specific guidelines for location of the market, buildings, parking and driveways, vehicle ingress and egress, and signage. It’s important to think proactively about safe entrances, overflow parking, pedestrian safety and walk areas, and road visibility. Please refer directly to the Farm Market GAAMPs for specific details.

Does the Farm Market GAAMP Apply to Me?
The GAAMPs are not regulations that are enforced. Compliance is voluntary. It is recommended, however, that if you have a farm market or roadside stand on your property, that you follow the guidelines. By utilizing GAAMPs, farmers and Michigan residents benefit through environmental protection of natural resources, sound management of agricultural inputs, and sustaining a strong and stable agricultural industry.

Proactive Review
Farms may request a Proactive Review by the Right to Farm Program to determine conformance with the GAAMPs. This is typically done when expanding or adding a farm market. To request a voluntary review, you can complete a Conformance Request Application.

Protection Provided by the Farm Market GAAMPs
While conforming with the GAAMPs does not act as a complete barrier to complaints or lawsuits, it does provide an umbrella of protection from nuisance litigation. In addition to conformance to the GAAMPs, farmers also need to comply with all state and federal environmental and agricultural laws.

A farm market operation following GAAMPs may still be subject to other local, state and/or federal regulations. Appendix A of the Farm Market GAAMPs indicates: “It is the responsibility of the farm market owner or their representative acting on the owner’s behalf to contact the appropriate regulatory authorities to determine if additional permits for compliance are required prior to beginning any activity or construction.”

Licenses for Products being Sold
There are different requirements based on the types of products you are selling at your market. In some cases, you will need to obtain state and local licenses. In other cases, you may be exempt. Rules are often based on whether the foods are of your own production or not. There are additional exemptions if you produce the food yourself and are selling it at your own farm.

Please see MDARD’s Food Establishment Licensing Details, FAQ and Step-by-Step Guide for information about licenses you may need. Or contact MDARD at 800-292-3939.

This summary may help you determine the licenses which may apply to your operation:

• Whole, Uncut, Raw Produce: No license is needed if you are selling whole, fresh, uncut fruits and vegetables directly to consumers. (Michigan Food Law)
• Cottage Foods (Non-Potentially Hazardous): Baked goods (breads, cookies), jams, jellies, dry mixes, and roasted coffee can be prepared in a home kitchen without a license. However, you must follow strict Michigan Cottage Food Law labeling requirements which include the statement, “Made in a home kitchen not inspected by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.” See MDARD’s Cottage Food Law one-pager for full information. Cottage foods may be sold on your property or directly from you (the food producer) to the consumer. You may deliver Cottage Foods via third party delivery, but only directly to the person purchasing the food. For specific questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to MDARD at MDARD-CottageFood@michigan.gov or call 800-292-3939.
• Maple Syrup or Honey: If you produce maple syrup or honey, you do not need a license to sell these items retail or wholesale, as long you adhere to these rules:
  • Maple Syrup and Honey Licensing Exemptions: https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/food-dairy/maple-syrup-and-honey
  • Rules and Regulations for Selling Honey in Michigan: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/rules-and-regulations-for-selling-honey-in-michigan
• Processed or Potentially Hazardous Foods: Items like salsa, pickles, canned goods, hot prepared meals, and dairy must be prepared in a licensed commercial kitchen and may require an MDARD Food Establishment License to be retailed.
• Meat and Poultry: Must be processed in a USDA-inspected or MDARD-inspected facility.
• Shelf Stable Grocery Items: Generally, items like bottled water, chips, candy, jams or jellies, and maple syrup do not need a license, as long as they are an incidental amount of total food sales (5% or less). Otherwise, a Retail Food Establishment License would be required.
• Temperature-controlled for Safety: Refrigerated or frozen foods, foods requiring temperature control, prepared or cut foods, soft serve, slushies, smoothies, or similar items, require a Retail Food Establishment License regardless of sales percentage. Examples: apple cider and dairy products.
• ServSafe or equivalent Food Handler certification may be required if you are serving food for immediate consumption.

General Business Requirements

• Sales Tax License: Required if you sell taxable goods (e.g., crafts, candles, soaps, non-food items). Register for a sales tax license (free) through the Michigan Department of Treasury.
• Liability Insurance: Liability insurance is highly recommended for farm markets and roadside stands. Consult your insurance agent about the types of insurance and limits needed for your operation.

Benefit Programs:

• SNAP/EBT: If you want to accept Bridge Cards, you must apply for a separate authorization through the USDA SNAP Retailer Application.
• WIC Produce Connections and Senior Project Fresh: You will want to apply annually to be an approved retailer for either of these two benefit programs. Growers interested in the WIC Produce Connection Program should contact 800-942-1636, Option 2 or MDHHS-ProduceConnection@michigan.gov to request an application. Questions about the Senior Market FRESH program should be directed Aging and Community Services a 517-241-4100 or Senior Project Fresh Program (michigan.gov)

Plan to attend a Farmers Market?

• Vendor Application: You must be an approved vendor by the specific farmers market organization before selling. Market managers will ask for copies of your licenses, proof of insurance, and a list of your products.
• Liability Insurance: Although not legally required by the state, almost all farmers market managers mandate vendors to carry general liability insurance (typically with a minimum of $500,000 to $1,000,000 in coverage).
• Food Handler Certification: Many farmers markets prefer or require at least one person at your booth/market to hold a ServSafe or equivalent Food Handler certification.

The Michigan Farmers Market Association is an excellent resource for information about selling your products at a farmers’ market.

Advice for your Market
Here are some tips to have the best market possible and comply with the GAAMPs.

Get Involved. Help guide the future and direction of your community by engaging in local decision-making processes. Attend township meetings to stay in the know and share your expertise on farming and farm business operations on agritourism issues and ordinances.

Document and Keep Records. Farmers should keep records on: products grown on the farm, product sourcing, farm acreage, licenses, inspection records, and compliance efforts. If a zoning or nuisance dispute occurs, documentation can help demonstrate conformity with the GAAMPs.

Develop a Site Plan. The GAAMPs recommend that operators maintain a written site plan for MDARD review. This is not a requirement, though documentation can be very important if zoning disputes arise and you need an MDARD review.

A good site plan should include buildings, parking, traffic flow, ingress/egress, signs, restrooms, and neighboring land uses. The site plan can be hand-drawn. Include notes that would also demonstrate that you would meet the required 50% self-grown farm products.

Watch for critical food licenses you may need. These include those in the Michigan Food Law, Cottage Food Law, local health department requirements, and MDARD licensing rules. Processed foods, prepared foods, sampling, refrigeration, and on-site preparation may trigger licensing requirements. This is one of the major risk areas for farm markets.

Pay attention to traffic, signs, and parking. These areas can be a common source of neighborhood complaints. The GAAMPs specifically address parking surfaces, ingress and egress permits, and signage. Again, think proactively about safe entrances, overflow parking, pedestrian safety and walk areas, and road visibility.

Stay focused on agriculture for the farm market. Some operations eventually expand into other agritourism activities such as petting zoos, wedding venues, tasting rooms, etc. These activities may not qualify as protected farm market activities under the GAAMPs. Michigan courts and local governments often examine whether the activity is truly agricultural or primarily commercial entertainment.

Farmers Market Products Licensing Requirements
https://mifma.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MIFMA.ProductLicensingRequirements-10.23.23.pdf

This guide provided by the Michigan Farmers Market Association lists various licensing requirements for farmer’s market vendors. Many of these same licensing requirements also apply to farm markets and roadside stands.

Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices for Farm Markets (2026)
https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/environment/rtf/2026-GAAMPs/Farm-Markets-GAAMPs-2026.pdf

MDARD GAAMPs
MDARD’s webpage with the 2026 version https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/environment/rtf/gaamps#current-gaamps
Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs) are guidelines for farm management that help promote a positive image of Michigan agriculture. They were developed and adopted by the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development in 2010.

MDARD Right to Farm Program
https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/environment/rtf/right-to-farm-program
The Right to Farm program within the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) responds to nuisance complaints involving farms and will assess a farm operation at a farmer’s request.

Michigan Agritourism Association
https://michiganfarmfun.com/
A nonprofit association that supports the agritourism industry in Michigan through promotion, education, networking, advocacy and problem resolution. Members also receive one-on-one support for their business and advocacy at the national, state and local level.

Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies
https://www.michfb.com/agriculture/political-action/right-farm-act
This webpage on the Michigan Farm Bureau site provides information on the Right to Farm Act including answers to commonly asked questions.

Michigan State University Extension Planning
https://www.canr.msu.edu/planning/zoning_ordinance_resources/agricultural-right-to-far
Michigan State University (MSU) Extension helps farmers and local governments understand and navigate the Michigan Right to Farm Act (Act 93 of 1981). The core purpose of the act is to provide commercial farmers with an affirmative defense against public or private nuisance lawsuits if their operations follow Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs).

Michigan State University Product Center
https://www.canr.msu.edu/productcenter/
The Michigan State University Product Center helps Michigan entrepreneurs and businesses to develop and launch new product and service ideas into the food, beverage, and agriculture markets. Their services are offered throughout Michigan.

Michigan State University Product Center, Farm Market/Stand
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/farm-market-stand
Resources from Michigan State University are specifically helpful for farm markets.

Michigan Townships Association
https://michigantownships.org/
The Michigan Townships Association was formed in 1953 as a unified voice representing nearly all Michigan’s township governments. Member services include: advocacy, representing township government before state and federal lawmakers and decision-makers, advocating for legislation and policies, information, answering member questions and providing advice on statutory requirements, and education through training and resources.

Farmers Market General Information. (n.d.-b).
https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/food-dairy/farmersmarket/farmersmarket

Find a farmers market – Michigan Farmers Market Association. (2025, July 15).
Michigan Farmers Market Association. https://mifma.org/find-a-farmers-market/

Glenn, A. (2023, May 9). Michigan Right to Farm act Basics. Mika Meyers. https://www.mikameyers.com/right-to-farm-act-basics/

Hoag, R. C. (2024, May 8). The role of Michigan’ s Right to Farm Act and Farm Market GAAMPs in agritourism. Michigan State University Agritourism Summit. https://www.canr.msu.edu/agritourism_summit/uploads/files/MI%20Right%20to%20Farm%20Hoag.pdf

MDARD Food and Dairy Division. (n.d.). FARMERS MARKET PRODUCT LICENSING REQUIREMENTS. https://mifma.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MIFMA.ProductLicensingRequirements-10.23.23.pdf

MI Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development Approves 2026 Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices. (2025, November 5). [Press release]. https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/about/media/pressreleases/2025/11/05/mdard-approves-2026-generally-accepted-agricultural-and-management-practices

Michigan Commission of Agriculture & Rural Development. (2026). Generally accepted agricultural and management practices for farm markets. https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/-/media/Project/Websites/mdard/documents/environment/rtf/2026-GAAMPs/Farm-Markets-GAAMPs-2026.pdf?rev=3f274512977749ed87df83120dd14dcf&hash=4FA2E2342CEE2E72BB3C723E47FF5864

Presence of on-farm markets varies across U.S. counties | Economic Research Service.
(2023). https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/charts-of-note/chart-detail?chartId=113111

Right to Farm Act | Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies. (n.d.). Michigan Farm Bureau Family of Companies. https://www.michfb.com/agriculture/political-action/right-farm-act

Singular, E. (2024, March 21). EXAMPLE OF SUCCESSFUL FARM MARKET GAAMP SITE PLAN APPROVAL — Michigan Condemnation Blog. Michigan Condemnation Blog. https://www.michigancondemnationblog.com/blog/example-of-successful-farm-market-gaamp-site-plan-approvalnbsp