To start your coffee brand in West Virginia, decide whether you’ll launch as a cottage producer (direct-to-consumer roasted beans) or a commercial roastery (wholesale/retail)—that choice dictates permits, facility, and labeling. Form an LLC via the WV One Stop Business Portal, obtain an EIN, and register for the West Virginia Business Registration Certificate to collect 6% sales tax (plus municipal add-on). Cottage path: roast in your home kitchen, sell DTC (online/in-state, markets), and place a cottage disclaimer on labels; no health inspection, but keep sanitation logs and use scales. Commercial path: secure a WV Department of Agriculture food manufacturing permit (plan review, hand sink, washable surfaces, pest control, potable water), then add a local health permit if operating a café. Check WV DEP air-permit thresholds for roaster size and install ventilation/fire suppression per NFPA; consult the fire marshal before purchasing equipment. Labels must meet FDA and WV Weights & Measures: statement of identity, net weight in avoirdupois and metric, ingredients/allergens, and your business name/address; add “flavored with…” if using oils. Source traceable green coffee, document lot codes, and date/batch roast for recalls. Carry $1M product liability, register your trademark, and leverage WV Farmers Market and WV Grown programs to build distribution.
