Farmers Markets

Farmers Market

What is a Farmers' Market?

A farmers market is a common facility or area where farmers gather to sell a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and other locally produced farm and food products directly to consumers. In Peoria County, a farmers' market is further defined as a market where at least two (2) farmers are selling products produced on their farm.

Application

• Farmers Market Plan Review Application Packet (PDF)

Farmers' Market Rules

• Farmers Market Permit Rules (PDF) 

Guidance

• IDPH Sanitation Guidelines for Farmers' Markets (PDF)
• Farmers Market Product Origin Requirements (PDF)
• Sanitizer vs Disinfectant Guidance for Farmers' Markets (PDF)
• Temporary Hand Washing (PDF)
• Not Ready for Use Produce Signage (PDF)
• Illinois Farmers Market Association Website (COVID-19 Toolkit and other resources for Farmers Market Vendors, Managers, and Consumers)
• Consumers Guide to Food Safety at Farmers Markets

Serving Samples at the Farmers Market

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), a cottage food operation may offer samples at a farmers market either by preparing prepackaged samples in the kitchen of the cottage food operation, or by obtaining an Illinois Sampling Certificate and preparing samples on the spot at the farmers market. Certificates are valid for 3 years and cover all farmers markets statewide. 

If you already have a current Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) certificate, you can complete the Farmers Market Sampling Application for CFPMS (PDF) and mail a $10 fee to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Guidance

• Farmers Market Food Sampling Handout (PDF)
• Farmers Market Food Sampling Pre-Inspection Checklist (PDF)