# Craft fair vendor insurance.

Vendor insurance is usually general liability coverage that pays if your booth or products injure someone or damage property. Many craft fairs and markets require it and ask for a certificate of insurance naming the organizer. Get quotes from insurers, tell them exactly what you sell, and ask the event for its requirements first.

_Updated 2026-10-11._

## What vendors insurance covers.

General liability insurance covers claims that your business caused injury or property damage, such as a tent collapsing or a product hurting a customer. It does not usually cover your own stock, equipment or theft. Some policies add product liability, and food sellers often need it. Ask what the policy covers and excludes.

## Why markets ask for it.

Venues and cities often require organizers to carry insurance and to make sure vendors do too. The organizer may ask for a certificate of insurance and for the event to be named as an additional insured. Requirements differ by event, so read the vendor packet.

## How to get a certificate of insurance.

1. Read the event's requirements: coverage type, limits, additional insured wording and deadline.
2. Contact an insurance agent or insurer that covers market vendors and explain exactly what you sell and where.
3. Choose between a single-event policy and an annual policy depending on how many events you attend.
4. Ask the insurer to issue a certificate that matches the organizer's wording.
5. Send the certificate before the deadline and keep a copy for your booth.

## Choosing a policy.

- Compare quotes from more than one insurer.
- Check that your products and activities are covered, especially food, candles, cosmetics and anything handled by children.
- Ask whether your policy covers events in other states.
- Keep your licenses, permits and insurance certificates on file and reuse them across applications.

## Ask an insurance professional.

This guide is not insurance or legal advice. Confirm coverage with a licensed agent or your state insurance regulator.

## Questions

**Do I need insurance to sell at a craft fair?**

Many events require it and ask for a certificate of insurance. Check each event's vendor requirements.

**What is vendors insurance?**

Typically general liability insurance for people who sell at events. It covers claims for injury or property damage connected to your booth or products.

**What is a certificate of insurance?**

A document from your insurer that proves you have coverage, and often names the organizer as an additional insured.

**Is single-event insurance enough?**

If an event accepts it and you only do a few shows, it can work. If you do many events, ask about an annual policy.

## Related

- [Certificate of insurance for vendors](https://bzar.app/guides/certificate-of-insurance-for-vendors)
- [Craft fair and market insurance](https://bzar.app/guides/craft-fair-and-market-insurance)
- [How organizers collect vendor insurance](https://bzar.app/guides/how-to-collect-vendor-insurance-and-permits)
- [Permits and licenses](https://bzar.app/permits)