Certified Farmers' Markets

Certified Farmer's Markets (CFMs) are locations approved by the County Department of Agriculture and other local agencies where certified farmers sell their produce directly to the public.

CFMs provide a great opportunity for small farmers to market their products without the added expenses of commercial preparation. This increases their net income and makes it possible for them to stay in business. CFMs are where you can meet the producer and be a part of a larger community that wants to learn more about local farming and values seasonal varieties. The Department and State inspectors certify markets and producers to ensure they are following certain requirements and uphold the basic premise, "We grow what we sell".

What is a Certified Producer (Farmer)?

A Certified Producer is a farmer who has been certified by the county Ag Department to sell in CFMs. This means that inspectors have visited their farm to verify their agricultural production. The Department issues a Certified Producer’s Certificate (CPC) to the farmer, which lists the products they grow and may sell in a CFM. 

If you are interested in obtaining a CPC, please fill out the online application. Make sure you fill out the form for a Producer’s Certificate rather than a Farmers Market Certificate; the latter is for market managers only. Once your application is reviewed, we will call you to arrange an inspection for purposes of verifying your commodities. The cost of the certificate is $5.00 and can be paid at the time of inspection or when you come to pick it up in our office.

Please contact the market’s manager for further information on how to become a vendor at the market.

Apply for a Certified Producer Certificate

Other Resources:

Certified Producers Requirements Quick Check

Authorized Representatives List

Certified Producers Agreement

How do I start a Certified Farmers Market in Del Norte County?

If you are interested in starting a certified farmers' market in Del Norte County, please fill out the online application and provide all the required information. An inspector will review your application and contact you with any questions. Once your application is approved, a Certified Farmers' Market Certificate will be issued to you or your organization at which point you will be required to pay the $20 certificate fee. Your certificate is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.

Please read "Section 1392.9. - Direct Marketing, Compliance Requirements for the Operator of a Certified Farmers' Market" which outlines regulations to understand your responsibilities as a Certified Farmers' Market Operator.

Please visit the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) Direct Marketing webpage for additional resources:

CDFA’s Certified Farmers' Market Program

Direct Marketing Laws and Regulations