How to Start a Lemonade Stand in Texas (Kids & Adults)🍋

Thinking about starting a lemonade stand in Texas?

Whether you’re a kid with hustle or an adult looking to cash in on the sweet life, this guide breaks down exactly what’s legal, what’s not, and how to do it the smart way — even outside the box.

Is It Legal to Run a Lemonade Stand in Texas✅

Yes!

As of September 1, 2019, kids can legally run lemonade stands in Texas without permits or licenses.

Helpful:

This is thanks to the Lemonade Stand Law (HB 234) signed by Governor Greg Abbott.

“It will no longer be against the law for kids to sell lemonade at a lemonade stand,” – Gov. Abbott

Who’s Covered?🧒

Minors Under 18

• ✅ Can sell non-alcoholic drinks like lemonade
• ✅ No permit or license needed
• ✅ Allowed on private property and many public spaces (with permission)
• 🚫 Not subject to HOA, zoning, or health department interference

Adults (18+)

• ❌ Must comply with full vending regulations (more below)
• ✅ Can assist kids or run a kid-led business legally

For a deeper dive into lemonade and cottage food laws, check out the Texas section on CottageFoodLaws.com.

Do Kids Need Permits or Health Inspections?🧼

Nope.
Not in Texas.

As long as it’s a minor selling non-alcoholic drinks, the stand is exempt from:

• Food handling permits
• Health inspections
• Local business licensing
• Zoning complaints (even from grumpy neighbors or HOAs)

Still smart to follow basic safety:

• Use gloves or tongs
• Keep ingredients covered
• Store perishables in a cooler if you’re out for hours

Adult Lemonade Vending in Texas🧑‍💼

If you’re 18 or older and plan to sell lemonade — especially on public property or at events — you’ll need the full setup.

Required Permits:

• ✅ Retail Food Establishment Permit – Texas DSHS
• ✅ Mobile Food Unit or Temporary Food Establishment Permit – based on setup
• ✅ Food Handler’s Certificate – about $10–$15
• ✅ Sales Tax Permit – free but mandatory if selling regularly
• ✅ Business License – varies by city or county

Health & Equipment Requirements:

• Handwashing station
• Cold storage (cooler or refrigeration)
• Covered dispensing container
• Regular sanitation of surfaces

Total startup costs for permits and certifications: Expect $250–$500+ depending on where and how you vend.

Outside-the-Box Option: The Lemon Boss Model🔥

Want to skip the permits and red tape — legally?

💡 Let the Kid Run the Biz

You (the adult) act as business manager.

A minor under 18 becomes the face of the operation.

• The child sells
• You supply, train, and support
• The business is legally kid-run and exempt from permits

You can:

• Offer pop-up stands to neighborhood kids
• Franchise a turnkey lemonade biz for families
• Run workshops or “kidpreneur” training through your community

Just make sure:

• The kid handles the money and customer interaction
• You have clear agreements with their parents
• You don’t pretend it’s kid-run when it’s not

This model is completely legal in Texas and a powerful way to turn lemonade into income without the headache.

Helpful: How To Run A Good Lemonade Stand

Do I Need to Collect Sales Tax?🧾

If you’re a kid selling occasionally?
No.

If you’re an adult or making regular income?
Yes.

You’ll need to register for a Sales Tax Permit through the Texas Comptroller’s Office.

It’s free, and you can do it online.

Helpful Links & Resources🔗

• Texas Cottage Food Law – Lemonade Guide
• DSHS Child Beverage Stand Memo (PDF)
• Texas Retail Food Establishment Permitting Info

Shortcut to Vending Success📣

Want to skip the costly trial-and-error phase?

👉 Join VendorsUnited.com — the private community helping hundreds of vendors grow faster, smarter, and more profitably.

✅ 100% Free for the First 5 Days
✅ Weekly trainings, support, and vendor resources
✅ Perfect for beginners and pros

Want to Turn Lemonade into Real Cash?🍋

You don’t need a food truck or a degree in business — you just need the right steps.

👉 Grab the free lemonade shortcut here

✅ Learn how vendors are making real income with lemonade
✅ Includes tips on permits, setup, and smart upsells
✅ Made for Texas — and beyond

Helpful: How To Start A Lemonade Stand Today (With Video Instructions)