Need a License to Sell Worms? Here’s What the Law Says

Need a License to Sell Worms? Here’s What the Law Says

License to Sell Worms Or Permit?

In many ways, licensing of businesses is a good thing. It helps ensure public health and safety by ensuring people you’re providing services or goods you’re qualified to do and that meet certain standards.

However, in other ways, licensing can be quite onerous and expensive. Some types of businesses need special licenses to operate legally, others require different types of licenses depending on the nature of the business being operated. Getting one of these licenses isn’t always straightforward.

Does selling worms require a license or permit? 

Can You Sell Worms? 

There is no state in the US that prohibits selling worms. Worms are a saleable product. Many states require that you collect a sales tax on the sale of worms. There are different rules for every state so you would need to check with each state where you plan to sell worms.

For example in NY – dec.ny.gov/permits/28633

You should also be aware that some cities and counties regulate or prohibit the sale of worms. If you are selling worms on a website, at home, or at a physical shop and are collecting sales tax from your customers, you will need to apply for a sales tax permit from your state’s department of revenue.

Why Might You Need Licenses to Sell Worms? 

If you plan to sell worms, you will need a license. If you plan to sell worms wholesale, you will need a license. And, if you plan to sell worms online, you will need a license. But why?

Because worms are considered an essential component of urban agriculture, their sale may be regulated to prevent them from causing harm to local ecosystems. Without proper care, worms can cause a lot of harm to agriculture. This is why licenses when it comes to dealing with worms are critical. 

All of these licenses are administered by your state’s department of agriculture. If you are unsure which department you need to contact, you can visit the USDA website. You can also visit the website of your state’s department of agriculture to find out more information.

Just as the rules and procedures for collecting a sales tax permit vary from state to state, so do the licensing requirements. However, there are some general guidelines you can follow. If you plan to sell worms in a retail environment, for example, you must be registered with your state’s department of agriculture.

Most states also require that you have a physical address. You can’t sell worms by operating out of your home. You may need to get a state commercial license. You will also have to meet certain rules and regulations. 

Why Do I Need a License To Sell Worms? 

The short answer is that your state’s department of agriculture requires you to have a license if you plan to sell worms. There are several reasons why they may do this.

First, they may want to ensure that the people selling worms are qualified to do so. This may include a certain level of education, a health inspection, and a license fee. Some states may even require that you pass a test before they will grant you a license to sell worms.

Second, they may want to ensure that the worms are properly labeled and stored. This will help prevent the spread of disease and prevent people from getting sick. It may also help protect the livelihood of other commercial worm farmers in your area. 

Can You Sell Worms Online Without a Permit? 

If you are selling worms online, you will need a license to collect sales tax from your customers. You can either collect sales tax from your customers and send it to your state’s department of revenue or apply for an internet sales permit.

Collecting sales tax from your customers is the easiest option. However, if the amount of worms you sell isn’t enough to justify the cost of collecting sales tax, an internet sales permit may be the better option for you. The rules and procedures for obtaining an internet sales permit also vary from state to state. 

Do You Need a License Sell Worms Locally? 

If you plan to sell worms locally, it depends on where you’re located. The rules and regulations governing retail sales of worms vary from state to state. Your state department of agriculture should be able to tell you if you need a license to sell worms locally.

If you plan to sell worms on a wholesale level, you will need a wholesale license. To find out if you need one, you can contact your state’s department of agriculture.

Is Selling Fresh and/or Live Food Different from Selling Worms? 

Yes, fresh and/or live food are not worms. Licenses to sell fresh and/or live food are administered by your state’s department of health. If you plan to sell worms and fresh and/or live food, you will need to apply for licenses. They are not considered the same thing in the eyes of law.

UK and Canadian Laws

UK – Regarding the UK no law prohibits the sale of worms or requires a permit to do so.

Canada – There are no current laws regarding worms in Canada. But we still suggest reaching out to your local agriculture department for more information and clarity.

Conclusion 

Keep in mind that some states have more stringent laws regulating the sale of worms than others. It never hurts to do a little research to make sure that you are operating within the law. If you need help, you can also talk to an attorney. They will be able to help you navigate the licensing process and make sure that you don’t miss anything. 

author
DrWorm - Vermicomposting enthusiast and avid worm researcher for the last 25 years. Interested in what earthworms eat and how to farm and breed them. His garden wouldn't be the same without the help of mother nature's finest fertilizers!