Farmers Market Vendor Checklist: Permits, Sales Tax, Supplies, and Setup
A complete farmers market and craft fair vendor checklist: how to become a vendor, licenses and permits to check, sales tax basics, booth supplies, card payments, and day-of setup tips.
Selling at a farmers market, craft fair, or weekend market is a great way to grow a small business. But showing up prepared makes the difference between a stressful day and a profitable one. Use this farmers market vendor checklist to get the paperwork, supplies, and setup right.
This is general guidance, not legal or tax advice. Rules vary by city, county, and state, so check with your local offices and the market organizer.
How to become a farmers market vendor
- Find markets near you. Look at city and county websites, local farm associations, and community event calendars.
- Read the vendor rules. Each market has its own requirements, fees, and product categories.
- Apply early. Popular markets fill up and may have waitlists.
- Gather your documents. Many markets ask for a business license, permits, and proof of insurance with your application.
- Pay booth fees. Some charge per day, others per season.
Licenses and permits to check
Requirements differ everywhere, but these are the common ones to ask about:
| Item | What it is | Who to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Business license | Permission to operate a business in your city or county | City or county clerk |
| Seller's permit | Lets you collect and pay sales tax on goods | State tax department |
| Health permit | Required for many food and drink vendors | County health department |
| Cottage food registration | For some homemade foods made in a home kitchen | State or county health department |
| Temporary event permit | Sometimes required for one-time events | Event organizer or city |
| Liability insurance | Covers accidents at your booth; many markets require it | Insurance provider |
If you sell homemade food, read our guide to cottage food laws for home bakers.
Sales tax basics for market vendors
In many states, goods sold at markets are taxable, while some foods are exempt. A few basics:
- Register for a seller's permit if your state requires one.
- Know your rate. It can depend on the city where the market is, not where you live.
- Decide how to price. You can include tax in your price or add it at checkout. Including it keeps prices round and simple.
- Keep records of every sale so filing is easy. Lemoney's Earnings screen tracks every card sale, refund, and fee.
- File on schedule, whether monthly, quarterly, or yearly.
Booth supplies checklist
Setup
- Canopy or tent (10×10 is standard), with weights or sandbags
- Folding table(s) and tablecloth that reaches the ground
- Chairs or a stool
- Signage with your business name and prices
- Display crates, baskets, risers, or racks
Selling
- iPhone with the Lemoney app for Tap to Pay card payments
- Battery pack and charging cable
- Cash box with small bills and coins
- Bags, boxes, or wrapping
- Price tags and labels (ingredients and allergens for food)
Comfort and safety
- Water, snacks, and sunscreen
- Hand sanitizer and wipes
- First-aid kit
- Trash bags
- Clips, tape, zip ties, and scissors
Prepare your products and prices
- Price every item clearly. Shoppers skip booths where they have to ask.
- Know your margins. Our pricing guide shows how to price for profit and find your break-even point.
- Bring enough inventory, plus a little extra for your best sellers.
- Add products to Lemoney ahead of time so checkout is one tap, and turn on stock counts to see what's selling.
Market day setup tips
- Arrive early. Give yourself at least an hour to set up.
- Make your booth inviting. Stack products high, use height, and keep the front open.
- Stand, smile, and greet people. Engaged vendors sell more.
- Offer samples if your market and permits allow it.
- Keep the line moving with fast card payments and a simple menu.
After the market
- Count cash and compare with your Earnings totals
- Note what sold out and what didn't sell
- Record mileage, booth fees, and supply costs for taxes
- Post your next market date so regulars know where to find you
Get found before market day
Grown-up popups on Lemoney show on the map ahead of time, with what you sell and when you're open, and nearby shoppers can get an alert before you open. Read more on how to get customers to your popup.
