Florida Community Farmers' Markets
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a community farmers' market?
A community farmers' market is an association of farmers who assemble for the purpose of selling their produce directly to consumers.
- I am interested in organizing a community farmers' market. Are there any grants available to help me get started?
The USDA's Farmers' Market Promotion Program (FMPP) is a competitive grant program that provides funds to assist in establishing, expanding, and promoting domestic farmers' markets, roadside stands, CSAs, agri-tourism activities, and other direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities. Approximately $10 million for 2011 and 2012. For more information, go to http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/ and click on “AMS Grant Programs” on the right hand side of the page.
For more information on grant opportunities, contact your local county extension office. You can find a telephone number for your local office at http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu.
- Where can I find a list of retail farmers' markets in my area?
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services maintains a list of community farmers' markets throughout Florida. Because community farmers' markets are not required to register with the Department, the list is not a complete one. View the list of farmers' markets.
- How can we list our farmers' market on your website?
Contact Carl Penn with the Bureau of State Farmers' Markets at (850) 617-7380 or . Keep in mind we do not list commercial single-vendor produce stores or farm stands. The listing on our website is for farmers' markets that include a number of vendors selling fresh produce. To list your market on our website, completion of this form is also required.
- I'd like to sell at some of the farmers' markets listed on your website. What do I do?
Each retail farmers' market in Florida is independent and establishes its own vendor rules and regulations, so please contact the individual market you are interested in to obtain its vendor requirements.
If you will be selling by weight, contact the Division of Standards at (850) 921-1590 to have your scales certified. If you plan to sell processed food items, check with the Division of Food Safety at (850) 245-5595 for the appropriate permits.
If you are selling only fresh fruits and vegetables, you do not need a license or permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Please check with your local tax collector for the occupational licenses and permits required in your county.
- What is the WIC/Farmers' Market Nutrition Program?
The Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides WIC participants with coupons that can be used to purchase locally grown, fresh Florida fruits and vegetables. This produce can be purchased at authorized farmers' markets from April 1 to July 31. More information about the FMNP.
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