From neighborhood street fairs to holiday markets and food festivals, Pittsburgh hosts dozens of events each year that give local entrepreneurs a chance to sell their products directly to customers. But if you’ve ever wondered whether it’s legal to simply set up a table and start selling, the answer is a little more complicated.
The good news is that selling handmade goods, artwork, clothing, baked goods and other products at festivals is legal in Pennsylvania. However, vendors may need permits, licenses or tax registrations depending on what they’re selling and where they’re operating.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, vendors who do not maintain a permanent physical business location in Pennsylvania and sell taxable goods may need a Transient Vendor Certificate, which authorizes them to collect and remit sales tax within the state. The department specifically cites craft show vendors as an example of businesses that may need the certificate. More information is available through the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue’s Transient Vendor Certificate guidance…