Herdshare Programs in Washington
Herdshare Legal Status in Washington
Raw milk retail sales are legal with a Grade A permit.
Herdshare agreements in Washington are governed by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. A herdshare contract transfers partial ownership of a dairy animal to the consumer, who then receives milk as an owner rather than as a buyer. In Washington, herdshares are one of several legal options alongside direct farm-gate purchases and retail sales.
Washington Herdshare Listings
We’re building our Washington herdshare directory. Know a herdshare program in Washington? Help us list it for free.
Submit a Herdshare ProgramHow Herdshares Work in Washington
In a herdshare arrangement, you purchase fractional ownership of a dairy animal (typically a cow or goat). You then pay a regular boarding fee to the farmer who cares for and milks your animal. In return, you receive a regular allocation of fresh raw milk proportional to your ownership share.
Because you legally own a portion of the animal, the milk you receive is not a purchased product — it is your milk. This structure makes herdshares legally permissible in Washington under contract law.
Raw Milk Farms in Washington
Browse all raw milk farms and dairies in Washington, including farm-gate sales options.
Raw Milk Laws in Washington
Read the complete legal guide for raw milk and herdshares in Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are herdshares legal in Washington?
Yes. Herdshare programs are permitted in Washington. Raw milk retail sales are legal with a Grade A permit.
How do I find a herdshare in Washington?
Browse our directory above (listings coming soon), ask at local farmers markets, contact Washington State Department of Agriculture, or search for local food buying clubs in your area.