A Certified Farmers' Market is an approved site where farmers may sell produce directly to consumers. These markets and the participating growers are approved by the agricultural commissioner's office. Growers are prohibited from buying and re-selling produce at Certified Farmers' Markets. In order to sell at a Certified Farmers' Market, a grower must obtain a Certified Producer's Certificate from their home county's agricultural commissioner's office. This certificate must be displayed at the point of sale and must list each commodity offered for sale. The Santa Clara County Division of Agriculture routinely inspects farmers' markets to ensure growers are selling only the items they are authorized to sell.
Why should you shop at your local farmers' market?
- Superior quality -- the freshly picked, vine ripened produce is unbeatable!
- Cost -- a direct sale by farmers to the consumer eliminates the cost of the middleman.
- You are supporting local farmers and the local economy.
- You can learn about the food you are buying, where it came from and how it was grown.
What do you need to sell produce at a Certified Farmers' Market?
You must first obtain a Certified Producer's Certificate. To do this you must call your local agriculture commissioner’s office and arrange for an appointment with a Biologist who will come out to verify your growing grounds. After speaking to a biologist, you can fill out an application online. If your growing grounds are in Santa Clara County, we will charge an hourly rate to certify your production. Call our offices for more information.
For More Information Please Contact:
Santa Clara County Division of Agriculture
1553 Berger Drive
San Jose, CA 95112
Phone: (408) 918 - 4600 Main Phone Line