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Madison County boards ask planning commission to study allowing cottage bakeries
Summary
After a resident’s request to sell low‑risk baked goods under 'cottage law,' commissioners and supervisors voted to ask the planning commission to examine ordinance amendments that would permit cottage‑industry bakeries on private property or via limited roadside stands.
A Madison County resident, Katherine Richtors, told the joint July 1 meeting she is exploring becoming a cottage baker and asked the boards to allow small on‑property stands or roadside sales for low‑risk baked goods (breads, cookies, muffins).
Planning staff and board members discussed the zoning distinction between farm stands for produce and roadside sales of manufactured food items, noting the current code does not authorize roadside stands for manufactured goods. Commissioners and several supervisors expressed support for reviewing the ordinance and ensuring any administrative path is equitable and enforceable.
Both bodies passed motions asking the planning commission to study options for an ordinance amendment to allow cottage‑law baking operations and return recommendations. The planning commission was asked to report back with recommended language and to schedule workshops so the board can consider a formal amendment.
Next steps: the planning commission will evaluate draft language, address enforcement processes (permits/administrative review), and present findings at a future joint meeting or workshop.
