Larimer County Farmers' Market Vendor Rules and Resouces

2024 Vendor Rules and Regulations

Si habla español y le gustaría tener asistencia en aplicar para la Feria del Agricultor del Condado de Larimer, por favor contáctese con nuestros embajadores de la Feria, Lisa Auer y Laura Barajas al email auerlm@larimer.org o al 970-498-6013.

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Larimer County Farmers’ Market (LCFM) is operated by CSU Extension in Larimer County and Master Gardener volunteers. Larimer County Extension and Larimer County Master Gardeners have adopted the following Rules and Regulations, and at any time, may amend, delete, or modify these to meet the needs of the LCFM. In order to promote the LCFM to the community, we ask that all participants in the LCFM treat customers, staff, and volunteers in a professional manner to foster community and cooperative involvement. The LCFM will kick off its 49th season on May 18th, 2024 in Fort Collins! Thank you for keeping us a positive and appreciated aspect of the community.

IMPORTANT DATES

2024 Season:

May 18th - October 26th
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
200 W. Oak Street, Fort Collins, CO 80521

• Application opens: January 15, 2024
• “Early Decision” application due: February 29th, 2024
  • Produce vendors are strongly encouraged to apply by this date
• Early Decision acceptance and notification: Week of March 11th, 2024
• General application due: March 22, 2024
• Application fee deadline: March 29th, 2024
• All vendor acceptance and notification: Week of April 8th, 2024
• Licenses and other application documents due for all accepted vendors: April 26th, 2024

Infractions of any of the selling rules and regulations listed in this document will be cause to suspend or deny a vendor’s selling privilege. The LCFM will attempt to resolve vendor complaints in a professional manner; when issues are addressed to the best of the LCFM’s abilities, continued complaints may result in loss of selling privileges.

1.1 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

The Larimer County Farmers’ Market has four primary purposes:

1. To connect Colorado and Wyoming producers and artisans with consumers;
2. To provide an outlet for large and small businesses, as well as small urban gardeners or youth who wish to sell their products;
3. To provide an inclusive space for all community members to access healthy, nutritious, and local foods;
4. And, to educate the public on CSU Extension resources, including horticulture and food safety information from the Master Gardeners and the Master Food Safety Advisors.

1.2 SELLING REGULATIONS

Vendors are governed by:

• Larimer County Farmers’ Market “Rules and Regulations”
• Larimer County Health Department Regulations
• Colorado Cottage Food Act

1.3 HOURS, DATES AND LOCATION

• The LCFM will operate Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., May 18th through October 26th 2024.
• The LCFM is located at the Larimer County Courthouse parking lot, 200 W. Oak Street, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80521.
• Vendor setup begins at 7:00 a.m. and the LCFM requires vendors to arrive no later than 8:30 a.m. Vendors with large trucks requiring three (3) or more spaces and food trucks must be parked by 8:00 a.m.
  • If you are assigned an arrival window time, you must be in your assigned space by the end of the designated time.
• Vehicles arriving after 8:30 a.m. will not be allowed to drive into the market - late vendors must park outside the market and hand-carry items into their stall space. THIS IS STRICTLY ENFORCED.
• Vehicles within the market must remain parked until after 1:00 p.m. when the market closes. Driving through the market when it is in operation will not be tolerated.

1.4 MARKET ETIQUETTE AND PROFESSIONALISM

Vendors, market staff, market volunteers, and customers are expected to uphold a professional demeanor at all times. Any instances of inappropriate or rude behavior will not be tolerated. 

• If a vendor encounters an issue with another vendor, market staff, market volunteer, or customer, they should immediately notify the on-site Market Manager.
  • If you wish to report an incident outside of the operating hours of the LCFM please reach out via email to
• If a vendor is found to repeatedly disregard the Rules & Regulations, challenge the authority of a staff member or inspector, or behave or communicate in a disrespectful, degrading, rude, threatening, harassing or intimidating manner toward vendors, customers, volunteers, or LCFM staff, they will be assessed a Conduct Violation which may affect selling privileges up to and including expulsion from the LCFM. Each issue will be reviewed and addressed on an individual basis. 

1.5 NO SMOKING POLICY

Smoking and vaping are prohibited in the LCFM from 7:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; this policy is strictly enforced and applies to all vendors, customers, staff, and volunteers.

1.6 APPLICATION FEE

• The 2024 application fee is $60.
• Applicants under the age of 18 exempt from the application fee.
• Non-profit groups who wish to sell goods on behalf of their organization are exempt from the application fee.
  • Non-profit organizations and community groups who wish to have a presence at the market without selling goods or services should email the LCFM Coordinator for available dates at larimercountyfm@gmail.com.

1.7 PET POLICY

The Larimer county Farmers market is a pet-friendly market however pets and livestock are not allowed behind vending tables of vendors selling food items during the LCFM’s operating hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Customers are allowed to bring their pets to the market if they are leashed, non-aggressive, and do not interfere with market operations.

2.0 ELIGIBILITY OF SELLERS

2.1 GROWERS ONLY POLICY

Agricultural products sold at the LCFM must be grown or produced by the vendor or a cooperating farm. If a vendor chooses to sell products from a cooperating farm, those products must be clearly labeled during the market with their place of origin. All value added products and crafts must be made or produced by the vendor. No resale of products is allowed and is strictly enforced - inspections of businesses may occur if this policy is in question. If vendors are found to be re-selling items, they will be suspended and fined $250; a second occurrence will result in the permanent loss of selling privileges at the LCFM.

If catastrophic climate conditions affect yields, agricultural products from other Colorado or Wyoming farms may be sold temporarily, but only if they are pre-approved by the LCFM and only if products are labeled with the originating place of origin. If products are not properly labeled or pre-approved, vendors will be fined $250 and may lose selling privileges.

For vendors participating in produce consignment or exchange and wish to sell these products at the market, the LCFM requires prior written permission from the LCFM, a copy of the vendor’s current Farm Products Dealers License, a complete list of traded products that the vendor wishes to sell at the market, and the name, address, phone number, and email address of the trading partner. All consignment or exchanged produce sold at the market must be Colorado or Wyoming-grown, and cannot have been purchased from a wholesale facility or warehouse. When selling these products at the market, a sign must be placed next to the product that clearly states the farm name and location where the product was grown. Please see Appendix I, “Instructions to Vendors on Produce Consignment or Exchanging.” This policy was updated in 2024.

Alternatively, the vendor and the trading/consignment partner may submit separate applications and each pay $60 application fees, and indicate that they will be sharing space at the LCFM. This is a cheaper alternative to obtaining a Farm Products Dealer license. One employee may represent both vendors at the market, but it’s required that separate check-out forms be submitted for each vendor at the end of each market.

2.2 VENDOR SELECTION

Due to the popularity of the market and space limitations, the LCFM cannot accept all applications submitted. Market dates and space assignments will be listed for each vendor in Manage My Market. If a vendor does not have a space assignment for a market day, the vendor is not currently scheduled for that date. Vendors will be emailed if/when space becomes available.

Selection Priorities for Larimer County Farmers' Market Vendors:

1. Fresh Produce Growers:
   • Returning fresh produce growers with sales over $1000 in 2023 will be given priority.
   • New fresh produce growers will be accepted based on availability after returning vendors are accommodated.
2. Agricultural Products (e.g. meat, milk, flowers):
   • Returning vendors of agricultural products with sales over $1000 in 2023 will be prioritized.
   • New vendors of agricultural products will be considered based on space availability and product diversity.
3. Returning Value-Added Vendors:
   • Value-added vendors (e.g. packaged honey, cheese, jams) with sales over $1000 in 2023 will be given priority.
   • New value-added vendors will be considered after accommodating returning value-added vendors.
4. Returning Hot Foods Vendors:
   • Hot foods vendors with sales exceeding $1000 in 2023 will be prioritized.
   • New hot foods vendors will be considered after accommodating returning hot foods vendors.
5. Returning Craft Vendors:
   • Craft vendors who participated in the market in 2023 with sales over $1000 will be given preference.
   • New craft vendors will be considered based on space availability and product uniqueness after accommodating returning craft vendors.
6. New Value-Added Vendors:
   • Acceptance of new value-added vendors will be based on available space and product diversity.
   • Priority will be given to those offering unique products that complement the market.
7. New Hot Foods Vendors:
   • New hot foods vendors will be considered based on available space and the diversity they bring to the market.
   • Priority may be given to vendors offering a variety of cuisines to support more diverse food options.
8. New Craft Vendors:
   • New craft vendors will be accepted based on available space and the uniqueness of their products.
   • Priority may be given to crafts that enhance the overall diversity and appeal of the market.

Note: All new vendors must comply with the LCFM rules and regulations, and acceptance is subject to meeting the market's standards for quality and authenticity. The final selection will be made by the LCFM management, taking into consideration the market's goals and objectives.
 

2.3 INSPECTIONS

Inspections for vendors may occur prior to and/or during the market season. Inspections are a method of ensuring businesses are producing sufficient quantities of products and that products are being made or grown on-site. Inspections are performed by an independent consultant; some vendors may not receive an inspection. Vendors will be notified of the inspection and work with the consultant to set up a date and time that accommodates the vendor’s schedule.

2.4 MARKET DATES AND ATTENDANCE

Vendors do not have to attend all 24 market dates. Vendors must select dates in the application process that they can commit to attending. All vendors must pay a $60 application fee except for youth and non-profit organizations selling products on behalf of the organization. See Section 1.6 above.

2.5 COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE (CSA)

The LCFM allows community supported agriculture (CSA) share pick-up during the market’s operating hours. However, if a vendor sells a CSA share at the market during operation hours, this would be considered a sale and included in the vendor’s gross sales at the end of the market day.

2.6 SALES TAX

The LCFM is located within the City of Fort Collins and sales tax is collected based on the products the vendor sells. The vendor is responsible for paying their own sales tax and obtaining a City of Fort Collins sales tax license. Find out more information at the City’s website. 

3.0 ELIGIBILITY OF PRODUCTS

Only those products listed on the vendor’s application will be allowed for sale. Vendors wishing to sell a new product not listed on their original application must obtain permission from the LCFM before selling any new products.

Vendors should never expect, nor is it appropriate to ask for, exclusive rights to products or services.

Marijuana or products containing marijuana, as well as products containing CBD may not be sold. 

3.1 RAW AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

All products listed below are considered to be “Raw Agricultural Products” by the LCFM and are subject to a 6.5% weekly selling fee. Applicable sales tax is the responsibility of the vendors, to be paid to the City of Fort Collins. 

• Fruits, vegetables, herbs, grains, flowers, bedding plants, potted plants, dried beans, cultivated mushrooms, microgreens, and compost grown or produced by the seller are all eligible for sale at the LCFM.
  • Wild-collected mushrooms and/or foraged items in any form are prohibited at the LCFM.
• Egg sales at farmers’ markets are exempt from licensing and inspection by the Colorado Cottage Foods Act (CCFA) if there are fewer than 250 dozen sold per month. The CCFA requires that eggs be transported and stored in a clean and sanitary environment that is between 33° and 41° F. Labels must include the address at which the egg originated and the date the eggs were packaged. Any eggs not treated for salmonella (through pasteurization) must have the following statement on each package: “SAFE HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS: TO PREVENT ILLNESS FROM BACTERIA, KEEP EGGS REFRIGERATED, COOK EGGS UNTIL YOLKS ARE FIRM, AND COOK ANY FOODS CONTAINING EGGS THOROUGHLY.” The package must also contain the statement: “These eggs do not come from a government-approved source”.
  • If you plan to sell eggs for “retail only” and you produce less than 250 dozen per month, then your operation would be exempt from regulation by the Department of Agriculture.
    • “Retail only” means a stand at your home, selling to friends and neighbors at the place of production, or at a farmers’ market, CSA, or similar venue where the eggs are sold directly to the final household consumer of the eggs.
  • All eggs must be washed and sanitized as per the Colorado Department of Agriculture guidelines. 
  • Egg cartons may not be reused; all eggs must be in new cartons.
• All fresh milk must be pasteurized and be processed in a USDA-inspected facility. No sales of raw milk or milk shares of any type are allowed at the LCFM.
• Any meat that is packaged for sale must have the USDA stamp (bug) indicating that it was processed in a federally inspected plant. The dye used to stamp the grade and inspection marks onto a meat carcass is made from a food-grade vegetable dye and is not harmful.
  • The inspection mark is put on carcasses and major cuts. After trimming, the mark might not appear on retail cuts such as roasts and steaks. However, meat that is packaged in an inspected facility will have an inspection mark that identifies the plant on the label.
  • Only federally inspected meat may be sold across state lines.
  • Vendors selling processed and packaged meat from animals they own at a farmers’ market need to obtain a retail food establishment license, issued by the Larimer County Health Department.
  • Meat and poultry products sold at the market must be kept frozen at a temperature of 0 degrees F° or below. Calibrated thermometers are to be kept in freezers/storage containers for meat and poultry products at all times when selling and will be checked for appropriate temperature by Market Management.
• Honey is only considered a “raw agricultural product” when it does not have the addition of any other substance. This includes, but is not limited to: water, flavorings, or other sweeteners.
  • To qualify under the Colorado Cottage Foods Act, gross sales must not exceed $10,000 per type of item sold. Potential products include comb honey, cut comb honey, liquid honey, and whipped or creamed honey. 
  • Any additional processing or flavorings added to honey will require a retail food establishment license through the Larimer County Health Department.

3.2 VALUE-ADDED AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS (RAW AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS THAT HAVE BEEN PROCESSED)

All products listed below are considered to be “Value Added Products” by the LCFM and are subject to a 8.5% weekly selling fee. Applicable sales tax is the responsibility of the vendors and will be paid to the City of Fort Collins.

• Baked goods, flavored honey, cheese, jams, jellies, popcorn,  confectionaries, and roasted chilies must be produced in a commercial kitchen or facility that has a current Retail Food Establishment (RFE) license or produced under the Colorado Cottage Food Act (CFA). Copies of required documentation must be included with the vendor’s application.
• Packaged jerky, cheeses, or other animal products exhibiting the USDA seal may be sold.
• Any pre-packed processed greens (e.g. lettuce, spinach, kale) must be processed in a commercial facility and have proper licensing.
• Only those products listed on the vendor’s application will be allowed for sale. Vendors wishing to sell products not on their original application must fill out an addendum to their application. New products must be approved by the LCFM.

Please contact the Larimer County Health Department with questions about licensing. The phone number for the Larimer County Health Department is 970-498-6775.

3.3 HOT READY-TO-EAT FOODS

Products listed below are considered to be hot ready-to-eat foods by the LCFM and are subject to a 8.5% weekly selling fee. Applicable sales tax is the responsibility of the vendors and will be paid to the City of Fort Collins.

• Hot ready-to-eat foods are items that are intended to be consumed on site and may include, but are not limited to: tamales, breakfast burritos, hot sandwiches, kolaches, quiche, etc.
  • Frozen versions of these items are considered value added products.
• These items require a Retail Food Establishment License from the Larimer County Health Department and are NOT covered under the Colorado Cottage Foods Act (CCFA).
• Only those products listed on the vendor’s application will be allowed for sale. Vendors wishing to sell products not on their original application must fill out an addendum to their application. New products must be approved by the LCFM.

Please contact the Larimer County Health Department with questions about licensing. The phone number for the Larimer County Health Department is 970-498-6775.

3.4 ALCOHOL AND FERMENTED BEVERAGES

The LCFM allows sales of wine and fermented beverages (i.e. kombucha). Alcoholic beverages are defined as any fermented liquor, such as wine, beer, or distilled spirit, that contains ethyl alcohol, or ethanol (CH3CH2OH). Alcohol is produced by the fermentation of yeast, sugars, and starches. These products are subject to a 8.5% weekly selling fee. Applicable sales tax is the responsibility of the vendors and will be paid to the City of Fort Collins.

Beer and distilled spirits/alcohol are not allowed for sale at the LCFM.

Wine may be sold with the following regulations:

• The winery must apply to the State Liquor Licensing Authority for an off-site manufacturer’s sales room permit (reg. 47-428). 
• The LCFM will provide a written letter of approval, plus the space and location where the vendor will sell each week, which will be the same for the entire market season. 
• The winery must pay for and provide all licensing required in order to sell products directly to consumers - please consult with the Colorado State Liquor Licensing Authority. It is the responsibility of the vendor to check for age identification if providing samples and sell all products legally. Vendors violating any policies will be dismissed from the market.
• If the winery plans to do sampling, there are additional restrictions and regulations. Only sealed containers may be purchased at the LCFM and leave the premises.
• Kombucha is allowed for sale and the vendor must obtain a Retail Food Establishment License (kombucha is not considered to be a cottage food). Please contact the Larimer County Health Department at 970-498-6700. 

3.5 CRAFTS AND NON-FOOD ITEMS

Crafts and Non-Food Items are subject to a 8.5% weekly selling fee. Applicable sales tax is the responsibility of the vendors and will be paid to the City of Fort Collins.

High quality crafts made by the vendor may be sold at the LCFM. Craft producers who have sold at the market in the past will be given priority; however, this is not a guarantee. There may not be space available for new craft vendors.

4.0 VENDOR RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1 PUNCTUALITY AND CRITICAL TIMES

• Vendors with large trucks requiring three (3) or more spaces must be parked by 8:00 a.m.
• All vendors must arrive between 7:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., with set-up complete by 8:30 a.m. Vendors can begin selling before 9:00 a.m.
  • If you are assigned an arrival window you must be in your assigned space by the end of the designated time.
• Vendors arriving after 8:30 a.m. will not be allowed to drive into the market; vendors must hand-carry products and booth items to their space. MOVING TRAFFIC CONES AT THE MARKET ENTRANCE IS UNACCEPTABLE. 
• To ensure the safety of Farmers’ Market patrons, vendors are not allowed to move vehicles within the market between 8:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Please be aware of pedestrian traffic within the market area.
• Vendors may continue to sell to customers beyond the 1:00 p.m. closing time to accommodate customers.

4.2 VENDOR BOOTHS AND DISPLAYS

• Vendors must provide their own change. The LCFM does not have change on-site. It’s strongly encouraged that all vendors accept online payments (e.g. Venmo, Zelle, PayPal). WiFi is largely non-existent in the parking lot, so transactions should run on the phone’s data plan.
• Vendors must provide their own signs, money, packaging, tables, tents, tent weights, and chairs for sale of products.
• Produce should be priced by piece, package, bunch, etc. Sales made by weight must be measured with scales that have a current valid seal of approval from the Colorado State Department of Agriculture Weights and Measures Division.
• The LCFM requires that each corner of a 10’ X 10’ vendor tent be weighed down with 40 pounds (equivalent to a five-gallon bucket of water). The LCFM has the right to require a vendor to take down their tent if they are not properly secured and/or weather conditions pose a threat to the safety of the market. Please refer to the LCFM website for instructions on making tent weights.
  • Using full paint cans or other hazardous materials as tent weights is strictly prohibited.
• Vendors must leave their sales areas clean or a $50 clean-up charge will be deducted from the following week’s sales.
• Vendors must provide their own trash receptacles and haul away their garbage. Trash cans on-site are not for vendor garbage.

4.3 QUALITY STANDARD

• Produce must be clean and fresh; vehicles, tables, and containers must be clean. No products will be sold directly off the ground or pavement. If blankets or tarps are used underneath products, please make sure they are clean and stay clear from customer traffic.
• Vendors should make every effort to provide wholesome products to the consumer. If chemicals are used, please follow proper harvest intervals before their sale. This information should be listed on all labels for the products used.
• Be cordial and courteous to vendors, volunteers, market staff, and customers.
• Vendors should within their designated selling areas - vendor “creep” into spaces is not allowed.
• Keep display areas clean and attractive.

4.4 PERMITS AND LICENSES

• All vendors are responsible for obtaining necessary licenses and permits and having a copy available at each market. 
  • An original copy of the business’s Retail Food Establishment License must be available at each market.
• Cottage Food Producers must complete the “Colorado Cottage Food Producer Application” form as part of their LCFM application.
• Copies of current licenses and permits must be uploaded to Manage My Market by April 26th, 2024. The LCFM reserves the right to refuse vendor sales if documents are not obtained. If there are delays with your paperwork, please notify the LCFM at larimercountyfm@gmail.com. 

4.5 INSURANCE

• All vendors are required to obtain and carry liability insurance. Please contact an insurance agent for pricing and options. Visit CO Farm to Market for additional insurance information. For a list of possible insurance providers, please visit the LCFM website or Manage My Market. It is required you include the Larimer County Farmers’ Market as an additional insured.
• The LCFM carries a liability policy that covers personal injury and property damage caused by market-owned or operated activities. This policy does not cover vendor-owned equipment or vendor products. Individual market sellers and their employees are not covered for claims related to their products, equipment malfunctions or any damage they may cause while at the market.
  • For example, a vendor-owned canopy blowing over and damaging a car would not be covered by the LCFM’s general liability policy. A canopy owned by the LCFM is covered.

5.0 MARKET CURRENCY

5.1 CASH

Vendors are responsible for their own cash box and change. The LCFM does not have any currency at the market. In addition to vendors having cash, we strongly encourage you to allow for credit card or online payments (e.g. Venmo, PayPal, Zelle).

5.2 SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP)

• Vendors who sell products that qualify for SNAP must agree to accept SNAP vouchers at their booth.
  • SNAP can be used to purchase items such as breads, baked goods, fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, dairy products, honey, jams, salsa, and seeds and plants intended to grow food.
  • SNAP cannot be used to purchase hot foods (including tamales and breakfast burritos), jewelry, pet food, soaps, cosmetics, lotions, pottery, and other nonfood items. If a vendor accepts SNAP for non-qualifying products, they will not be reimbursed.
• SNAP vouchers must be marked for the “2024 Larimer County Farmers’ Market”; if the vendor accepts SNAP from another market, the vendor will not be reimbursed.
• SNAP purchases, as per federal law, cannot be charged state or local sales tax.
• Individual vendors who are not able to process SNAP (EBT) Quest cards directly will still participate in the SNAP voucher program. SNAP transactions can be processed by the Larimer County Farmers’ Market information tent, located under the flagpole.
• SNAP vouchers are in $1 amounts; change (cash) cannot be given back for purchases with SNAP (e.g. If the total price of vegetables comes to $3.50, the purchase must be either rounded down to $3.00, or up to $4.00).
  • Vendors who are able to process SNAP transactions directly do not have to round customer purchases to the nearest dollar. 
• All collected SNAP vouchers must be turned in to LCFM staff at the end of the market each day in the envelope provided; please count your SNAP vouchers and record it on the envelope.
• SNAP transactions will be recorded separately at check-out; do not include SNAP sales in daily gross sales; there is a separate line to record SNAP on the check-out form.
• SNAP vouchers will be reimbursed to vendors during check-out on a weekly basis.
  • The value of the SNAP vouchers turned in to the market will first be deducted from the vendor’s selling fees for the week. Any additional balance will be sent via county check weekly. 

5.3 DOUBLE UP FOOD BUCKS (DUFB) AND HEALTHY INCENTIVES PILOT

Colorado SNAP Produce Bonus is a new program being tested by the State as an alternative to Double Up Food Bucks. When SNAP shoppers buy fruits and vegetables from market vendors, they will receive an immediate reimbursement directly back to their electronic benefits (EBT) card. Shoppers can receive up to $20 per transaction and up to $60 per month, which they can use to buy any SNAP-eligible product from any SNAP-authorized vendor. When shoppers spend these reimbursement funds, they are deposited in vendors’ linked bank accounts like other SNAP dollars. Or vouchers can be used to purchase products and processed as noted above. 

Beginning in the 2024 season, the Larimer County Farmers Market will be the only market in the region where SNAP shoppers will be able to easily and conveniently maximize their SNAP dollars in this way. The State will be promoting the LCFM directly to SNAP participants, and we expect to see an increase in SNAP shoppers and a bump in sales to participating vendors.

The USDA is moving toward a model where individual farmers market vendors are SNAP-authorized and have the equipment to run their own SNAP transactions, which will reduce administrative costs, so more program money can go to SNAP participants shopping at the market. By participating in this program, all LCFM produce vendors will receive free equipment, in-person assistance with the SNAP authorization process, and hands-on training and support. Vendors will start the market season ready to serve more SNAP customers and equipped for whatever changes may come to markets in the future. The LCFM will provide more detailed information to produce vendors following market acceptance.

To avoid confusion, the LCFM will not distribute paper vouchers for the DUFB program - these incentives will only be issued after the purchase of fresh produce. 

5.4 MARKET CURRENCY FROM PREVIOUS YEARS

Vendors may accept currency labeled only for the Larimer County Farmers’ Market from previous years. This includes SNAP or Market Bucks (last printed in 2019). Vendors will not be reimbursed for any currency labeled for other markets.

5.5 CREDIT CARDS, DEBITS CARDS, CHECKS, AND MARKET BUCKS

 The LCFM does NOT have the ability to process any credit card transactions for customers and provide Market Bucks. We strongly encourage vendors to accept online payment, such as Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, etc.

• Currency from other markets (wooden coins, paper coupons, etc.) cannot be accepted and the LCFM will only reimburse currency distributed by the LCFM.
• Vendors may accept credit/debit cards and checks at their own discretion. These sales, along with cash, must be included in the vendor’s total gross sales.

6.0 ASSIGNED SELLING AREAS

• If accepted to the market, vendors will receive a confirmation email in March (early decision) or April (general decision) 2024 . Dates and assigned selling spaces will be in Manage My Market, so please check your account for updates. Spaces and assigned dates are subject to change.
• All vendors will be assigned a selling area, approximately ten (10) feet wide and the length of a typical parking space.
• Vendors may not extend more than three (3) feet beyond the parking stall painted lines.
• Additional spaces will cost $5 per ten (10) feet wide space per market. Requests for additional spaces on the application should be accompanied by justification of necessity; requests will be granted on a case-by-case basis by LCFM management. The $5 per extra space fee only applies when the vendor is physically present at the market.
• Space assignments will be marked in chalk on the pavement at the market. Please be respectful of adjacent neighbors and stay within the allotted space. Vendor “creep” into additional space is not permitted.
• If there are vendor conflicts, please discuss them in a professional manner with both the vendor and LCFM management. If neighborly discussions do not resolve the issue(s), the LCFM will arbitrate.
• The LCFM has the final say regarding all selling areas, and reserves the right to schedule, assign, and move vendors as necessary to accommodate the LCFM’s needs.

7.0 PARKING

• There are two entrances for vendor check-in: Howes Street and Oak Street.
• Vendors are allowed to park one vehicle in their assigned space providing the vendor’s vehicle, tables, tent, and product all fit within the assigned space and do not extend beyond three (3) feet beyond the parking stall painted lines.
• Parking along Oak and Howes Streets is only for customer parking. Vendors parking in these spaces will be asked to move by market staff. Vendor parking is available on the south side of the First National Bank Building on Mason Street and Olive Street.

8.0 NON-ATTENDANCE

• Absences must be provided in writing by sending an email to larimercountyfm@gmail.com. Verbal notifications are not permitted.
• Adding dates to a vendor’s schedule is allowable - please email larimercountyfm@gmail.com to add dates. Adding dates does not guarantee a selling space, but the LCFM will accommodate requests as much as possible.
• Vendors scheduled for eighteen (18) dates or more will have two “free passes” for the season. Vendors must call or email one (1) week prior to the market date they cannot attend; this will not result in a missed market fee of $25.00.
• Vendors scheduled for seventeen (17) dates or less will have one “free pass” for the season. Vendors must call or email one (1) week prior to the market date they cannot attend; this will not result in a missed market fee of $25.00.
• After free passes have been used, vendors will be fined $25.00 for any additional missed market dates. Exceptions may be made for emergencies and will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Please communicate with the market regarding your situation.
• Repeated failure to attend the market will result in suspension or loss of selling privileges at the LCFM.
• The LCFM operates in ALL weather conditions. It is our expectation that vendors will attend, regardless of the forecast.

9.0 MARKET DAY FEE CALCULATION AND COLLECTION

• Each Saturday, all vendors must check-in at the entrance and provide their business name to the volunteer staffing the front entrance.
• After each market, vendors must complete an online check-out form by 6:00 p.m. on the Sunday following the market. Late submissions are subject to a $50.00 fine.
• Check-out invoices will calculate the 6.5% or 8.5% selling fee depending on products sold. The market will reimburse vendors for any SNAP or WIC collected. All vendors must pay their own sales tax based on their total gross sales for each market day.
• On Monday or Tuesday following the market, vendors will receive an invoice of their total market fees via email. Vendors are required to pay all fees owed to the LCFM by Friday following each market. Late payments may be subject to a $50 fee.
  • If the LCFM owes a vendor payment, it will be reimbursed to the individual vendor each week via county check.
• Vendors must honestly report all sales made by the vendor or vendor’s staff at each market. “Total gross sales” is defined as total sales for the day prior to paying booth staff salaries and city sales tax.

Revenue generated from the LCFM helps support the necessary LCFM logistical costs, such as personnel, insurance, marketing, rental supplies, management, software, supplies, etc. Therefore, it is required that all vendors report their sales and pay their sales percentage honestly. If discrepancies are suspected, the Larimer County Extension Business Operations Manager will have the authority to audit receipts for verification of sales.

10.0 RESTROOMS AND WASH STATIONS

• The LCFM will be providing portable chemical toilets for market customers and vendors.
• There will be two wash stations with soap, water, and paper towels located in the market. If supplies are running low, please alert market staff or a volunteer.

11.0 EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL

Educational material from Colorado State University Extension is provided by Master Gardeners and Master Food Safety Advisors during the Farmers’ Market. Try to direct people with gardening or food preservation questions to these groups—they will be happy to help!

The Larimer County Farmers’ Market reserves the right to add to, subtract, and/or modify its regulations in order to comply with policies established by local, state, and national entities.

View a pdf of this policy

Tent weights are used to secure the tent during windy days to protect the safety of customers, vendors and staff. The required weight is 40 pounds per leg. Under normal conditions, the weights are secured to the tent legs with Velcro straps for easy installation. As an added precaution, there is an eyebolt set in the weight that allows a heavy bungee cord or rope to secure the tent’s top frame to the weight. The market will ask vendors to take down tents if they do not have adequate weights.

Materials List:

• Ten feet of four inch PVC pipe (4 – 30 inch weights at 34-38#)
• Three 60# bags Quick Crete Concrete Mix or two 80# bags.
• Sixteen feet 1 1⁄2 inch Velcro One Wrap Strap (20-24 inch per strap/ two per weight)
• Eight – 1-inch pan head screw
• Eight – 3/8 x 1 1⁄4 fender washer
• Four -5 3⁄4 inch door pull w/screws
• Four -1/4 x 5 inch eyebolt
• Four – 1⁄4 x 1 1⁄4 fender washer
• Eight-1⁄4 inch nut

Tool List:

• Drill and pilot bit
• Hack saw or power miter saw
• Screwdriver
• Tape measure
• Scissors
• Concrete tamping rod
• Putty knife

Instructions:

1. Cut the PVC pipe to length, keeping the cuts square. Each completed weight weighs about 1.2 pounds per inch so adjust length to desired weight. Actual weight will vary between individual weights.
2. Mark for holes on pipe for Velcro and door pull in a straight line. Set Velcro holes 1 1⁄2 inch from top and 3 inches from bottom. Center the door pull on pipe then move up 1⁄2 inch to mark holes (easier to carry) and mark only the holes on one side. Pre-drill Velcro holes and the two door pull holes (drill the other two holes after the door pull has been mounted).
3. Bend washers and door pull using a shop vise and a hammer to better fit the curve of the PVC pipe (improves contact and eliminates exposed edges).
4. Cut Velcro to length, depending on tent legs, 20-24 inches is adequate.
5. Mount Velcro with loops (fuzzy side) down to reduce the Velcro from grabbing or sticking to everything. DO NOT over tighten the screws, as the PVC will strip out easily. Use one screw and one washer per strap with the screw centered (width and length) on strap.
6. Mount the door pull (DO NOT over tighten) in the two pre-drilled hole using the screws provided. Drill the other two holes and set the screws. By installing the screws before adding the concrete the screws are easy to remove for future repairs.
7. Construct the eyebolt assembly by placing the fender washer between the two nuts on the end of the eyebolt and tighten nuts.
8. Duct tape the bottom end of the PVC pipe to contain the concrete. Mix the concrete according to instructions, keeping the mix on the stiff or dry side. Using a garden trowel, pour the concrete into the pipe, tamping occasionally to remove air bubbles. As the pipe is filled set the eye bolt assembly in position at the top and continue to add concrete. Set the
   eyebolt at desired height, tamping around the edge to secure. Finish the surface concrete with a putty knife, sprinkle lightly with water for a smooth finish.
9. Set the weights upright to cure (2 days) and then clean the weights with soap and water.vA set of four weights as listed costs around seventy dollars and takes six to eight hours to complete.

Instructions written by:
C. Seymour, 2014
Larimer County Extension
Larimer County Farmers’ Market
Colorado Master Gardeners

Note that listing here does not indicate endorsement by Colorado State University Extension or Larimer County. This list is provided for reference only.

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Instructions to Vendors on Produce Consignment or Exchanging

Click here to download a word document version of the Appendix I

The Larimer County Farmers’ Market (LCFM) is aware of and respects different business approaches with our vendors. We understand that there are limitations as to where agricultural products can be grown and that climate has a large effect on quality and quantity of produce. The LCFM is, and will continue to be, a grower’s only market; these policies will not allow vendors to exclusively resell or consign produce—instead, these policies allow sale of limited quantities and crops. We are aware that exchange of produce does occur, so these regulations are in place to ensure good business ethics, Best Management Practices and honesty with other vendors, customers and market administration. With that, the LCFM has regulations regarding reselling (or “swapping”) items from/with other farmers:

Colorado state law (C.R.S. 12-16-104) requires that anyone who purchases farm products for processing or resale MUST have a valid Colorado Farm Products dealer license prior to the purchase for processing or resale.

• A Farm Products Dealer application fee is $275.00
• Small Volume Dealer license is $25.00 (no purchases over $20,000 annually, and no single purchase over $2,500)
• Cash Buyer license is $75.00 (all purchases are to be paid in cash, cashier’s check or money order, at time of purchase. No personal or company checks may be used)

Who is considered a dealer?

• Any person engaged in buying any farm products from the owner for processing or resale (this include swapping of items or items used for trade);
• Any person engaged in receiving and taking possession of any farm products from the owner for storage or safekeeping;
• Any person engaged in soliciting or negotiating sales of farm products between the vendor and purchaser respectively;
• Any person who receives on consignment or solicits from the owner thereof any kind of farm product for sale on commission on behalf of such owner, or who accepts any farm product in trust from the owner thereof for the purpose of resale, or who sells or offers for sale on commission any farm product or in any way handles any farm product for the account of, or as an agent of, the owner thereof.

Therefore, if you are a dealer in the above-mentioned situations, you must obtain a Farm Products Dealer License. The LCFM must obtain a copy of this license. In addition to a copy of the license, the following regulations are in place to ensure Best Management Practices and ethics:

1. Permission must be asked of LCFM administration; a list of products must be provided, as well as the names and contact information for the farmers that you are buying products from. Provide written explanation as to why these products are being consigned/swapped and the length of time these products will be sold at the LCFM.
2. Farm inspections may be done at any time during the LCFM season; vendors will be notified prior to inspections to schedule a time and date that works for the vendor. If vendors are suspected of misrepresenting their products, a farm
   inspection will occur.
3. A copy of your Farm Products Dealer License, as required by Colorado state law and regulated by the Colorado Department of Agriculture. Any violations or questionable practices will be handled by the CDA inspectors.
4. Products purchased must be from a Colorado farm; you may not buy products from a wholesale facility or warehouse. When you sell these products, you must give written credit at your booth (signage) to who grew the product (farm name and location). Vendors found “taking credit” for the consigned products as their own will be fined $50.00 per violation. There are no exceptions to this.

Clarification for 2023

If your situation does not fit in the resale category and you are not a dealer, you may fall into another category. If a grower wishes to sell their products as well as the products of another grower, both vendors will be asked to submit an application to the market.

For example, if a peach grower has a neighbor that grows corn, they may decide that the peach grower will physically sell both the corn and the peaches at the market and the proceeds will go back to each grower respectively. In this case, the growers are sharing a booth space and splitting their market staff, but neither grower is making a commission or purchasing someone else’s product with the intention of resale. Again, in this case each vendor will submit an application so that their products can be vetted by the market staff.

We are aware that certain products may be grown more easily on another farm in Colorado. When you bring these products to market, you must be honest about who grew them, where they were grown and how they were grown (organic or conventional). Honesty and ethical business practices are expected for all vendors.