Table (chicken) eggs sold ungraded, direct to consumer
LIMITED PERMIT REQUIRED
Bottom line: A Limited Poultry and Egg Farm Operation Permit lets small flocks sell direct — and a 2025 rule change widened eligibility from 1,000 hens up to 3,000, though a 30-dozen-a-week sales cap still applies either way.
The Path
Selling chicken eggs direct to consumers requires an FDACS Limited Poultry and Egg Farm Operation Permit. A 2025 amendment to Rule 5K-4.033, F.A.C. raised the flock-size ceiling for this permit from 1,000 laying hens to 3,000, but the permit still caps you at fewer than 30 dozen eggs offered for sale in any single week — cross either line and you become a "dealer" under § 583.01(4), requiring full commercial licensure instead. The permit itself now runs roughly $100/year plus a $10 epidemiological fee, managed through FDACS's online Plant Pay portal, and requires flock testing for pullorum-typhoid and an initial on-farm inspection.
What You Need
FDACS Limited Poultry and Egg Farm Operation Permit (≤3,000 hens and under 30 dozen eggs/week)
Egg washing/sanitizing setup, flock testing for pullorum-typhoid, initial inspection
Refrigerate eggs at 45°F or below at all times
Carton labeled with producer name/address, pack date, grade status, and safe-handling statement
Watch Out For
Online sales are NOT allowed under this permit — direct, in-person sale only
Selling 30+ dozen eggs in any week, or exceeding 3,000 hens, makes you a licensed "dealer" instead
Eggs must stay refrigerated at 45°F or below from pack to sale
Citations
Fla. Stat. Ch. 583
Fla. Admin. Code R. 5K-4.033 (amended 2025 – flock ceiling raised to 3,000 hens)
Agency contact: FDACS Division of Food Safety, Limited Poultry & Egg Program · 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352)