Located in Durango, CO

Every Saturday starting the 2nd Saturday in May through the end of October

Two Locations:

TBK Bank parking lot changing to Main Avenue on the 2nd Saturdays of each month

I. Mission 

The mission of the Durango Farmers Market is to support agriculture and the local community of farmers and ranchers by providing a vibrant marketplace. Within this marketplace, we aim to support the growth of sustainable food networks and local small businesses, enhance access to education, and boost the local economy.

II. Statement of Purpose 

Featuring produce and products from within these six counties: 

La Plata CO ◈ Montezuma CO ◈ Archuleta CO ◈ San Juan CO ◈ San Juan NM ◈ Dolores CO

The purpose of this market is: 

  • To provide an economically sustainable marketplace for local agricultural producers

  • To disseminate information to vendors about opportunities for growth and education

  • To build a community that supports healthy local food systems

  • To increase education about and reduce barriers to local food access by building partnerships that promote healthy food and inclusivity

  • To create a viable marketplace for community members to purchase local goods and gather together

III. Board of Directors 

The Durango Farmers Market is currently a Colorado state non-profit as well as a program under Onward! A Legacy Foundation.

The Durango Farmers Market will inform the public of board meetings via the  Durango Farmers Market website and/or social media or other methods as they are developed. Vendors will be informed of the meeting date and agenda via communication methods routinely utilized by Durango Farmers Market in accordance with our Bylaws. Anyone wishing to attend a board meeting can see the schedule on the events calendar of the Durango Farmers Market website. 

IV. Membership and Non-Member Vendors

All vendors must submit an annual application with the Durango Farmers Market and must follow these Rules and Regulations, if approved. Vendors, regardless of their membership status, are expected to behave in a professional and courteous manner at all times. Vendors are classified based on their membership status as follows:

MEMBER VENDORS

Member Vendors are those who actively contribute to the growth and management of the Durango Farmers Market. The responsibilities of Member Vendors include:

  • Market Participation: Members must participate in no fewer than ten regular season markets during the most recent market season.

  • Attendance at Meetings: Members must attend both the fall and spring membership meetings each year. Attendance can be achieved by:

    • Personal attendance at the meeting, remote attendance (if available), or appointing a proxy to attend on their behalf.

  • Governance Participation: Members must contribute to the market’s governance by either:

    • Serving on a standing or ad hoc committee for at least one year every four years, or

    • Serving as a Durango Farmers Market board member for at least one full term every ten years.

The benefits of being a Member Vendor include:

  • Voting Privileges: Members have the right to vote on important matters related to the market, as defined by the Durango Farmers Market Bylaws.

  • Reduced Booth Fees: Members receive a lower per-market booth fee.

  • Business Promotion: The Executive Director will develop more opportunities to increase exposure for members such as greater marketing access. 

Membership remains in effect as long as the vendor:

  • Maintains Good Standing as described below.

  • Complies with the Durango Farmers Market Bylaws, Rules and Regulations, and other policies that may be released by the Executive Director.

  • Continues to meet the eligibility responsibilities for membership.

NON-MEMBER VENDORS

Non-Member Vendors are those who choose not to be involved in the market’s management. The responsibilities of Non-Member Vendors include:

  • Market Participation: Non-Member Vendors are required to follow all market Bylaws, Rules and Regulations, and maintain Good Standing as described below. 

  • No Voting Privileges: Non-Member Vendors do not have the right to vote on market-related matters.

  • No Governance Participation: Non-Member Vendors are not required to serve on committees or the Board of Directors, but are always welcome to do so. 

NEW VENDORS

New Vendors are those who are approved to vend at the market for the first time. New Vendors have the same responsibilities as Non-Member Vendors, with the additional requirement that they must attend the Spring membership meeting in the year they are approved to vend.

If a New Vendor applies late and is approved to vend after the Spring meeting has taken place, they must schedule an orientation meeting with the Executive Director prior to their first market.

EVALUATION OF STANDING

All Vendors of the Durango Farmer Market regular season, whether Member or Non-Member, will be evaluated annually by the Executive Director to determine their standing.

Good Standing is described as:

  • Demonstrating consistent attendance at regular season market days that the vendor has committed to attend, and any other vendor meetings as required by their membership status 

  • Exhibiting a professional attitude and courteous behavior towards customers, Market Staff, and other vendors

  • Complying with the Durango Farmers Market Bylaws, Rules and Regulations, as well as any and all other policies that may be released by the Executive Director

Questionable Standing is described as:

  • Failing to meet the standards of Good Standing

  • Being disruptive to market operations

  • Repeated violations of these Rules and Regulations

  • Not following the procedure, as described in Section XI, to resolve any issues by the end of the current season

Vendors in Questionable Standing at the end of regular season may have their membership or participation privileges in specialty markets and/or committees suspended or revoked as determined by the Executive Director. Additionally, their standing will be taken into account when reviewing their application for the following season. To be considered for acceptance, these vendors must submit a formal letter to the Executive Director outlining how they will address the issues that led to their placement in Questionable Standing.

Vendors who participate solely in Specialty Markets are not subject to a formal Evaluation of Standing. However, at the discretion of the Executive Director, Vendor behavior and/or actions during these markets can be taken into consideration for any future acceptance in the regular season market and/or specialty market(s). 

COMMITTEES 

The Executive Director will oversee all committees. The Executive Director will provide information on goals and give assignments to the committees with timelines for completion. 

  • Eligibility: Committee membership is limited to Durango Farmers Market Members and Non-Member Vendors in Good Standing.

  • Committee Participation by Community Members: The Durango Farmers Market Board of Directors and/or the Executive Director may invite community members to participate as needed. Committee members may recommend specific community members for invitation, but the final decision on whom to invite rests with the Board of Directors and/or the Executive Director. Invited community members may share their expertise on specific topics relevant to the committee’s objectives. 

  • Decision-Making Authority: Committees are formed to create a collective body of research, assessment, and to recommend actions to be made by the Board of Directors and/or Executive Director. 

Standing Committees:

  • Market Application Review Committee

  • Rules and Regulations Review Committee

  • Fundraising and Events Committee

Ad Hoc or other Standing Committees may be created by the Executive Director as the need arises.

V. Application Process and Fees 

  • Submit a vendor application for the regular season Durango Farmers Market via an online market management platform, hereafter referred to as the “online platform”. A link to the online platform can be found on the Durango Farmers Market website under Vendor Applications. The regular season applications are open from February 1st thru March 1st. Late applications will be considered subject to availability. 

  • The Market Application Review committee will review vendor applications and put forth their recommendations to the Executive Director for final approval. The Executive Director will provide information to the Board of Directors as needed.  

  • All vendors must submit an application annually. Acceptance into the market during  a previous season does not ensure that the vendor will be accepted in future seasons. The Executive Director has the right to accept or reject any applicant. 

  • To be considered, applications must include: 

    • A detailed product list. See Section VIII for product requirements. 

  • Payment of a one time application fee of $35.00 to participate in any DFM supported markets. Application fees are nonrefundable. Late applications are charged an additional nonrefundable $35.00 fee. 

  • Indication of whether the applicant desires to be a Member Vendor or Non-Member Vendor at the Durango Farmers Market (see Section IV).

  • Signed agreements:

    • Statement of compliance with the Durango Farmers Market Rules & Regulations

    • A Release and Indemnity Agreement

  • Upon approval, the following is required to be submitted via the online platform no later than 2 weeks prior to the first market attended: 

    • A copy of all (city, county, state, federal) applicable licenses and permits needed to sell. 

    • A city of Durango business license.

    • A copy of general liability insurance certificate with “Durango Farmers Market” listed as additionally insured. 

      • Mailing Address:  P.O. Box 3761 Durango, CO 81302

      • Physical Address: TBK Bank at 259 W. 9th Street Durango, CO 81301

  • All applicants will receive a notification of their status by the third week of March and will need to submit all of their required documents to the online platform two weeks prior to their first market.

  • All products sold by the vendor, or their employee, must be grown, raised and owned, wild-harvested, or produced within the six following counties: La Plata CO, Montezuma CO, Archuleta CO, San Juan CO, Dolores CO, and San Juan NM.

    • Only the products listed on the online platform that are approved, will be allowed for sale. Changes to the product list must be submitted to the online platform and approved before selling additional products. 

    • Brokering, reselling, co-packing, or co-manufacturing is not allowed. 

    • All vendors are subject to inspection at their farm and/or operation by the Executive Director, and/or the Board of Directors, and may include an outside advisor.

  • Late applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and admitted as space and product variety permits. When the market has reached capacity, applicants will be added to a waitlist and contacted when space becomes available within a season. Contact the Executive Director for a bypass link. 

  • If two applicants would like to share a booth space they both must submit applications pertaining to their individual businesses on the online platform. Once approved, they must inform the Executive Director of their desire to share a booth space.

  • Payment Options:

    • Full Payment can be made through the online platform or directly to the Market Staff. Refer to the online platform for payment options.

    • Incremental Payments can be made at the market on the day of attendance, no later than 11:00 a.m., with cash or check to the Market Staff at the Durango Farmers Market Info Booth. Vendors can also arrange for incremental payments through the online platform.

  • Returned Payments: Any vendor whose payment is returned due to insufficient funds will be responsible for the full payment amount, plus a $35.00 returned payment fee.

  • Booth Space Assignments: Booth spaces are non-transferable and are assigned by the Market Staff. While the Market Staff will make every effort to minimize booth relocations, vendors should be understanding and respectful if they must be moved.

  • Specialty Markets: Vendor booth fees for specialty markets (such as 2nd Saturdays on Main, the Harvest Market and Holiday Market, detailed in Section IX) are separate from the regular season market booth fees.

MEMBER VENDOR AND NON-MEMBER VENDOR FEES

  • Vendor Booth Spaces: Vendors are required to pay for each regular season market they attend, based on the size of their booth space and the markets they attend.

    • First year Agricultural Producers pay a fee equivalent to nine (9) market days for a full regular season at the Member Vendor rate. 

    • Second year Agricultural Producers pay a fee equivalent to nine (9) market days for a full regular season determined by their membership status (Member Vendor or Non-Member Vendor.)

    • Established vendors pay a fee equivalent to eleven (11) market days for a full regular season according to their membership status.

The following booth space fees apply per Regular market season:

Table 1: Non-Member Vendor

 Durango Farmers Market 

2026 Rules and Regulations

Revised and adopted January 28, 2026

I. Mission 

II. Statement of Purpose 

III. Board of Directors 

IV. Membership and Non-Member Vendors

V. Application Process and Fees 

VI. Insurance 

VII. Licensing and Regulatory Compliance 

VIII. Vendor Types and Requirements

IX. Specialty Markets

X. Market Day Operations and Rules 

XI. Vendor Concerns, Complaints, or Compliance Challenges

XII. Resources 

XIII. Liability Statement

Addendum

Booth Size Cost of Space Cost Per Booth Space Established Vendors Total Season Cost If attending all 26 markets
10 x 10
(Single)
$60 $60 Pay up to 11 markets worth $660 $25.38 per week
10 x 15
(Single + ½)
$60 + $30 $90 Pay up to 11 markets worth $990 $38.08 per week
10 x 20
(Double)
$60 + $60 $120 Pay up to 11 markets worth $1320 $50.77 per week
Booth Size Cost of Space Cost Per Booth Space Established Vendors Total Season Cost If attending all 26 markets
10 x 10
(Single)
$60 $60 Pay up to 9 markets worth $540 $20.77 per week
10 x 15
(Single + ½)
$60 + $30 $90 Pay up to 9 markets worth $810 $31.15 per week
10 x 20
(Double)
$60 + $60 $120 Pay up to 9 markets worth $1080 $41.54 per week

Table 2: 2nd Year Agricultural Non-Member Vendors 

Table 3: Member Vendors

Booth Size Cost of Space Cost Per Booth Space Established Vendors Total Season Cost If attending all 26 markets
10 x 10
(Single)
$50 $50 Pay up to 11 markets worth $550 $21.15 per week
10 x 15
(Single + ½)
$50 + $25 $75 Pay up to 11 markets worth $825 $31.73 per week
10 x 20
(Double)
$50 + $50 $100 Pay up to 11 markets worth $1100 $42.31 per week
Booth Size Cost of Space Cost Per Booth Space Established Vendors Total Season Cost If attending all 26 markets
10 x 10
(Single)
$50 $50 Pay up to 11 markets worth $550 $21.15 per week
10 x 15
(Single + ½)
$50 + $25 $75 Pay up to 11 markets worth $825 $31.73 per week
10 x 20
(Double)
$50 + $50 $100 Pay up to 11 markets worth $1100 $42.31 per week

Table 4: 1st Year Agricultural Vendors & 2nd Year Agricultural Member Vendor

INCUBATOR PROGRAM: AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS ONLY 

  • The Agricultural Incubator program is designed for small-scale farmers and gardeners who are interested in possibly making agricultural production a career path and who would like to try out the Durango Farmers Market.

  • The Incubator program is intended to allow the grower an opportunity to sell food that they have produced and possibly become a full-time market vendor in the future. This program is for agricultural products only and must comply with the rules applicable to Agricultural Vendors.

  • This program is available to any interested grower who operates within the six county region of: La Plata; Archuleta; Montezuma; Dolores CO; San Juan CO; San Juan NM. 

  • Approved Incubator vendors can vend for up to two markets only; those do not need to be consecutive.

  • Interested parties may contact the Market Staff for an application.

INFORMATION BOOTHS

  • Information Booths are available exclusively to not-for-profit organizations that align with the Durango Farmers Market values.

  • To apply for an Information Booth, not-for-profit organizations must complete an application through the Durango Farmers Market's online platform. The application should include the organization’s name, a description of the purpose of the booth, and any materials or items to be distributed. There is a $35 nonrefundable application fee. This fee covers inclusion in the Durango Farmers Market's online management system and interactive map. 

  • Information Booths may have a booth space once per month.

  • Contact the Market Staff to apply late.

  • There is no booth fee for Information Booths, unless the booth is collecting donations. In the case of a federally recognized non-profit organization collecting donations, the booth fee will be $25 per market attended. 

  • For-profit sales are prohibited in Information Booths.

  • If an Information Booth plans to offer items or services, those items must be listed in the online platform under “products” and approved by the Executive Director prior to market attendance

COMMUNITY SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

  • The Community Sponsorship Program offers an excellent platform for businesses to support the Durango Farmers Market's mission while gaining exposure and connecting with a curated local audience. Sponsorship is available in several tiers, with each tier offering different levels of benefits, including the number of markets a business may attend.

  • Businesses interested in participating in the Community Sponsorship Program can find more information on the Durango Farmers Market's website under the "Sponsor" page.

  • The Durango Farmers Market Executive Director shall manage and direct the Community Sponsorship Program, which aims to raise funds for the market and promote it within the community. A set of guidelines for the administration of the program is maintained by the Executive Director and kept on file with the Durango Farmers Market's Secretary.

  • While sponsors may not sell products and/or services at the market, they may use their booth space for exposure, marketing, and community engagement. Sponsors can share information, gather emails for a mailing list, and promote their business to market attendees. 


VI. Insurance

  • General Liability Insurance: All vendors are required to provide proof of general liability insurance coverage. The certificate of insurance must include Durango Farmers Market listed as additionally insured.

    • Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3761, Durango, CO 81302

    • Physical Address: TBK Bank, 259 W. 9th Street, Durango, CO 81301

  • Vendor Liability: Liability for the products sold at the market rests solely with the vendor producing and selling those products. Durango Farmers Market requires that all vendors maintain product liability insurance to ensure proper coverage.

  • Insurance Documentation: Proof of insurance must be uploaded to the online platform no later than two weeks prior to the vendor’s first market day. Vendors must ensure that their insurance remains valid throughout the entirety of the market season.

  • Incubator Program Vendors: Vendors participating in the Incubator Program are covered under the market’s general insurance plan and are not required to provide separate insurance documentation.


VII. Licensing and Regulatory Compliance

All vendors are responsible for determining their required licensing and regulatory compliance requirements of the city, county(s), state and federal agencies they operate within. 

  • All vendors must keep their City of Durango Business License, required La Plata County and State of Colorado licenses, permits, inspections, and any certificates related to the sale and handling of food products valid and updated on the online platform.

  • At their booth, vendors are required to display all of the appropriate licenses, certifications, and permits necessary for the sale of their product(s), including but not limited to:

    • City of Durango Business License 

    • Agricultural licenses or certifications 

    • Health department licenses

    • Other specialized licenses, depending on the type of goods being sold.


VIII. Vendor Types and Requirements

VENDOR TYPES: AGRICULTURAL PRODUCER READY-TO-EAT FOOD & BEVERAGE ARTISAN SERVICE 

MARKETING AND PROMOTIONAL ITEMS

All vendors may sell and display promotional items, including, but not limited to: t-shirts, tote bags, and caps.  The name or logo of the vendor must be permanently affixed to each item. 

TYPE 1: AGRICULTURAL PRODUCER AND PRODUCTS 

An agriculture product is classified as G.R.O.W. (Grown, Raised/Owned, or Wild-harvested) in its raw or natural state by the farmer, rancher, or forager, herein referred to as an Agricultural Producer. This includes, but is not limited to: shell eggs, fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, and mushrooms. A site visit may be required to verify compliance with G.R.O.W. 

Agricultural Producers are required to adhere to all state and federal regulations regarding the production, slaughter, and/or foraging of their product. The attendants at the Agricultural Producer’s booth must include the farmer or an on-farm assistant. 

Table 5: Agricultural Products, Requirements and Additional Information

Agricultural Product Requirements Additional Information
Vegetables/Fruits G.R.O.W.
Eggs G.R.O.W. Egg Dealer License OR Cottage Foods Certificate is required, depending on egg production.
Only eggs produced in Colorado are accepted.
Fibers from plants or animals G.R.O.W.
Flowers: cut or dried G.R.O.W.

Plants: Seedlings, transplants, house plants, and plant cuttings.
G.R.O.W.
Nursery businesses that have a retail store front will not be allowed.
Growers who have farm stands on their own farm or land used for production are allowed.
Must be grown from seed, bulb, cutting, or bare-root.
Transplants must be grown to where their roots fill the pot significantly.
All plants must be in the possession of growers for a minimum of thirty days.
Resale of pre-finished plants is not allowed.
Honey or other products derived from beekeeping. G.R.O.W.
Must be from operations the vendor owns or manages themselves.
Collecting honey, or other products, from beekeepers to sell directly or combine with the vendor’s own honey products is not allowed.

Poultry
All poultry must be in the possession of and cared for directly by the vendor for a minimum of six weeks.* Small-Flock Exempt is allowed for processing on-farm without USDA inspection.
Larger operations may use USDA FSIS-inspected facilities outside the five counties.

Beef, Elk, Bison
All animals must be in the possession of and cared for directly by the vendor for a minimum of nine months.* Processing in a USDA FSIS inspected facility outside the six counties is allowed.

Lamb and Goat
All animals must be in the possession of and cared for directly by the vendor for a minimum of six months.* Processing in a USDA FSIS inspected facility outside the six counties is allowed.

Pork
Pigs must be in the possession of and cared for directly by the vendor for a minimum of four months.* Processing in a USDA FSIS inspected facility outside the six counties is allowed.

Hemp/CBD**

G.R.O.W.
Extraction of CBD outside the six counties is allowed.
Hemp grains for processing or consumption are allowed.
Hemp plants or seeds for germinating are not allowed.


Chile Roasters

G.R.O.W. ***
Up to two chile roasters are allowed during the market season.
Chile roasting must be clearly indicated on the application, along with the anticipated availability date.
Chile roasters will pay the additional booth fee for space needed as a safety buffer for the roaster. See Addendum.

AG-VAAP

G.R.O.W.
See definition for Value-Added Agricultural Products (VAAP)

*Upon request by the Executive Director, meat and poultry vendors are required to provide documentation that demonstrates how long the animal(s) have been in their possession. 

**  Food or pet treats that contain CBD, the CBD must be sourced from a producer within the six counties. 

*** In the event of a natural disaster (e.g., crop loss, hail storm) resulting in no approved Agricultural Producer being allowed to sell roasted green chiles at the market, the Executive Director and Board of Directors will determine if an exception to G.R.O.W. will be allowed. Substantiating documentation or inspection may be required. 

Note: There may be products the vendor is allowed or licensed to sell elsewhere that are not approved for sale at the Durango Farmers Market. It is expected of all vendors to respect the product list as approved through the online platform. 


VALUE-ADDED AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS (VAAP)

  • VAAPs are agricultural products that have been processed, modified, or preserved to increase shelf life or market value

  • VAAP describes a product type, not a vendor category

  • VAAPs may be sold by any approved vendor

  • A VAAP counts as an Agricultural (AG) Product only when approved as AG-VAAP (see below)


AG-VAAP QUALIFICATION

A VAAP qualifies as AG-VAAP when the primary agricultural ingredient(s) are grown, raised/owned, or wild-harvested by the vendor.

  • Determination of AG-VAAP status may require a site visit for verification. 

  • See Examples as listed in the Addendum.

MEAT VAAP

  • Meat VAAPs may only be produced by the vendor who owned and raised the animals.

2/3rds RULE: WANT TO SELL A PRODUCT OF ANOTHER VENDOR TYPE? 

For Agricultural Producers to be considered Agricultural Vendors, 2/3 or more of the products they sell (by value) must meet the requirements for their vendor type (See Table 5). The vendor must maintain the 2/3 percentage throughout the regular season, as well as on any given market day. The Executive Director may request sales information for confirmation of compliance. 

If an Agricultural Producer sells, or plans to sell, any other vendor type product(s) in excess of 1/3 of their total sales, that vendor must apply for, get approval for, and pay for the additional applicable vendor type and booth space. The vendor may be asked to completely switch vendor type, if it is deemed necessary by the Executive Director.


NON-AGRICULTURAL VENDORS 

All Non-Agricultural vendors will be evaluated on their use of locally sourced ingredients or materials. Having products that promote the mission of the Durango Farmers Market is a starting point in the approval process. Durango Farmers Market defines “local sourcing” as being closest to a farm-direct purchase of raw agricultural products or a wild-harvested material in Colorado and San Juan County NM. In other words, the farmer/rancher/forager receives 100% of the sale, and a third party (distributor/store) is minimally involved in the purchase. 

Durango Farmers Market understands that, depending on the product, it may not be possible to find Colorado or San Juan County, NM sources for all ingredients. For Ready-to-Eat Food and Beverage (REFB) vendors and Artisan vendors, Durango Farmers Market allows sourcing of some ingredients and materials to go beyond the six counties. In order to fulfill its mission to support local agriculture and small businesses, Durango Farmers Market encourages Ready-to-Eat Food and Beverage (REFB) vendors and Artisan vendors to aim for Tier 1 in the table below. Priority for approval of new and returning vendors will be given to those businesses that utilize as many Tier 1 ingredients and/or materials as possible. Vendors using Tier 3 ingredients will have lower priority than those in Tier 1 or Tier 2. Vendors not sourcing locally at all will have the lowest priority, but will still be considered. A site visit may be requested to confirm product compliance. 


Table 6: REFB and Artisan Product Sourcing Evaluation

Table 6 Ingredient Source Example
Tier 1 Ingredients or components procured from Durango Farmers Market Agricultural Producers or wild harvested by themselves within the five counties Ready-to-Eat:
• Vegetables, herbs, meat, eggs, or dairy purchased directly from DFM producers and used in prepared foods
Artisan:
• Soap or skincare made with herbs grown by the vendor and beeswax purchased directly from a DFM beekeeper
• Fiber goods made from wool purchased directly from a local rancher
• Pottery made from clay wild-harvested or locally sourced directly by the artist
• Botanical products (salves, teas, dyes) made from vendor-grown or directly sourced local plants
Tier Tier 2 Ingredients or components procured from producers or locally owned businesses within the State of Colorado Ready-to-Eat:
• Milled flour from a Colorado mill
• Colorado-produced cheese, oils, grains, or meats
Artisan:
• Soap or skincare made with Colorado-produced oils, butters, or hydrosols
• Fiber goods made from Colorado-spun yarn or locally processed fleece
• Candles made with Colorado-produced wax or fragrance blends
• Leather goods made from hides processed at a Colorado tannery
Tier Tier 3 Purchased from a reseller who purchases from a distributor who purchases from a farmer/rancher/producer in the state of Colorado. Ready-to-Eat:
• Colorado Proud ingredients purchased from a grocery store, co-op, or distributor
Artisan:
• Soap or skincare made with Colorado-sourced oils purchased retail or wholesale
• Fiber goods made with Colorado wool purchased through a yarn shop or online supplier
• Candles made with wax or fragrance labeled Colorado-sourced but purchased through a distributor
• Art or body products using Colorado-made bases purchased off-the-shelf

Applicants providing any combination of REFB products, Artisan products, or Services shall apply under the type that represents the highest percentage of anticipated sales. Applicants must include all products or services offered in the application. For booth placement or market date preference, the Executive Director may utilize Table 6 for placement priority.

TYPE 2: READY-TO-EAT FOOD AND BEVERAGE (REFB) 

Ready-to-Eat Food and Beverage products are considered to be prepared food(s) designed for the ease of consumption, that require minimal preparation on the part of the customer. These prepared foods can be sold as: ready-to-eat dishes, shelf-stable products, and as refrigerated or frozen products. REFB vendor applicants will be evaluated on their commitment to local sourcing, as described in Table 6, as well as their ability to attend the market consistently throughout the season. The primary ingredient(s) of VAAPs made by an REFB Vendor must be clearly labeled. 

Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic beverage vendors are allowed at the market and must be in compliance with city, county, state and federal requirements, including an off-site manufacturer’s sales room permit. Sampling and closed container product sales are allowed at the market. Open container sales are not allowed.

TYPE 3: ARTISAN 

Artisan products are products produced by the artisans themselves, either completely by hand or with the help of hand-tools or mechanical means, as long as the direct manual contribution of the artisan remains the most substantial aspect of the finished product. Examples include: jewelry, paintings, pottery, woodwork, photography, body care products, clothing, and some 3D printed items. Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated materials are strictly prohibited in the creation of your artisan product. 

Artisan vendor applicants will be evaluated on their commitment to provide handmade, high-quality goods in accordance with Table 6. 

In addition to providing high quality products, Artisan vendors will be evaluated on the number of markets they plan to attend per their application. Because Agricultural and REFB vendors are prioritized for placement at the market, Artisan Vendors are not guaranteed the dates requested in the application.  Nonetheless, Artisan vendors are expected to be available for at least eight  market dates in the regular season.  Highest availability is early and late in the season when some Agricultural vendors may not have products to sell. The Executive Director will schedule Artisan vendors based on available space. Flexibility in dates and commitment to attending up to eight markets will be considered by the Executive Director in scheduling Artisan Vendors.  Nonetheless, while the expectation is that Artisan Vendors be available for eight dates, DFM can not guarantee, due to space constraints,  that all Artisans will be invited to attend eight markets. 

Artisans who can not commit to attending eight markets are encouraged to apply to the Specialty Market 2nd Saturdays ONLY on Main. See Section IX.

TYPE 4: SERVICE 

Service vendor applicants are considered to be those who provide some degree of labor to the public. Some examples may include: massage, acupuncture, chiropractic, or knife sharpening. Service vendors will be evaluated on their ability to attend the market consistently throughout the season.

LABELING REQUIREMENTS 

All vendors must display the source of all local ingredients prominently at their market booth ensuring it is clearly visible to customers. Primary sources must be included on any label that will accompany the product when sold.

 

IX. Specialty Markets: 2nd Saturdays, Harvest Market, Holiday Market

Vending at Specialty Markets beyond the regular season is not subject to the requirements of membership. Nonetheless, vendors are subject to these Rules & Regulations. Fees for these markets are assessed separately. 

Current Specialty Markets

  • 2nd Saturdays on Main Ave: A downtown Durango market held on the second Saturday of each month of the regular season market. 

    • Approved regular season vendors are automatically included in vending at 2nd Saturdays on Main Avenue at their regular season booth fee schedule.  

    • There is an option to ONLY attend 2nd Saturday Markets as a Specialty Market option with its own booth fee schedule announced by the Executive Director.

  • Harvest Market- held in late November 

  • Holiday Market- held in mid-December


Dates, times, locations, and fees will be announced by the Executive Director via social media, on the DFM website, and/or by email before applications open. 

  • A nonrefundable application fee is required one time for all DFM supported markets. For late applications, there is a $35.00 nonrefundable fee.  

  • Acceptance into one of the Specialty Markets does not guarantee acceptance into others, nor into the regular season markets.


Additionally, Specialty Markets may be introduced with details provided as available. 

  • The Executive Director, with concurrence from the Board of Directors, may develop, plan, and announce other market days or events. An Ad Hoc committee may be included in the conceptual design of any such markets. 


X. Market Day Operations and Rules 

LOCATION 

The Regular season market will be held on most Saturdays, from the second weekend in May through the last weekend in October, in the TBK Bank parking lot. The physical address is 259 West 9th Street, Durango. 

The 2nd Saturdays on Main Ave will be held on the 2nd Saturday of each month of the regular season on the 900-1100 blocks of Main Ave in Durango, CO. 


VENDOR BOOTH SET-UP 

  • All vendor booths must have a tent, canopy, or umbrella, with the exception of food trucks, or as allowed by the location of Specialty Markets. 

  • All vendors must attach weights to each leg of their tent. For 10x10 tents, 40 lb weights must be attached to each leg of their tent or canopy, fastened at the top; or a 40 lb weight at the base of an umbrella. If two legs of the tent or canopy are together, there must be 80lbs total there. For any tents larger than 10x10, 80lb weights must be used for each leg. After a one-time warning, repeated non-compliance with the weight requirement will result in the vendor not being allowed to attend the market. The vendor must get permission from the Market Staff to return after getting the required amount of weights. 

  • Vendors are to unload, park out of the market area, and then return to set-up. This allows other vendors to access driving lanes. 

  • Saturday set-up, in TBK parking lot, must be completed no later than 8:00am and 9:00am in October. Vendor vehicles must be gone from the Market area by 7:40 am or  8:40 am in October. 

  • The Saturday market, in TBK parking lot, will open at 8:00 am and 9:00 am in October. No sales to the public are allowed before this time. 

  • The Saturday market, in TBK parking lot, will close at 12:00 pm. Vendors are not to completely break down booths prior to 12:00 pm and are not allowed to drive vehicles back in before 12:15 pm. 

  • Setup and breakdown times for the 2nd Saturdays on Main Ave market days will be communicated via email in advance of the market date by the Executive Director.

  • If two approved vendors are sharing a booth space, both vendors must be present at all markets where their products are for sale. 

  • All vendors must do their best to keep their supplies and signage within their market booth footprint. These items cannot obstruct or interfere with the walkway or other vendor’s products. 

BOOTH SPACE CLEANLINESS 

  • Vendors are responsible for the upkeep of the market area located near or in their booth area. Upon leaving the site, the vendor's booth area must be as clean, or cleaner, than the vendor found it at the beginning of the day. 

  • Before leaving, the vendor’s booth area must have all trash, food or product scraps/debris, or other waste generated by their market activities picked up for removal by the vendor. Vendors are responsible for bringing trash receptacles to hold all of the possible trash that could be generated from their booth and disposing of it themselves. Vendors are not to use receptacles on the market premises.

SMOKING OR VAPING

  • Smoking or vaping by any market participant is not permitted on the premises at the market.

PENALTIES & FINES

  • Fines may be assessed at the discretion of the Executive Director: 

    • Vendors may be assessed a fine for failure to remove their vehicle from the Market area by 7:40 am on Saturday (8:40 am in October), as well as for bringing their vehicle back into the market area before 12:15 pm. 

    • Vendors may be assessed a late fee for failure to set-up by 8:00 am on Saturday (9:00 am in October).

  • Vendors are required to notify the Market Staff if they will not be attending the Saturday market. Notification must be made no later than 5:00 pm on the Wednesday before the market to be missed.

    • Failure to notify before this time will result in a fine equal to the value of the unoccupied booth space(s) at the discretion of the Executive Director.

VENDOR INFORMATION CARD (VIC) 

  • All vendors must complete their Vendor Information Card (VIC)

  • All vendors are required to display their VIC on the front of their booth every market day in attendance

  • Blank VICs will be provided free of charge before the market season. Any replacements will cost $10. 

DURANGO FARMERS MARKET TOKENS

  • Durango Farmers Market Tokens are market tender to be treated as cash, with change given accordingly.

  • These tokens can be used to purchase items from ANY vendor at the market.

  • Vendors are required to accept Durango Farmers Market Tokens.

 

SNAP, DUFB, & OTHER FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS (FAP)

Durango Farmers Market participates in food assistance programs implemented through federal, state, or local agencies or entities, such as Colorado Farmers Market Association, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), LiveWell Colorado’s program, Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB), Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, & Children (WIC), Fresh to Flourish and more. 

Hereafter, these programs are referred to as Food Assistance Programs (FAP) These programs may use coupons, vouchers, or similar forms for payment. 

  • Vendors who sell FAP eligible items must participate in the program(s) through Durango Farmers Market.

  • Vendors must comply with the specific program rules. Documents and training relative to compliance with the program(s) will be provided to the vendor by the Market Staff. 

 

REIMBURSEMENT OF FAP COUPONS AND DURANGO FARMERS MARKET TOKENS 

  • All FAP coupons and DFM Tokens received by the vendor can be turned in weekly or monthly. They must be turned in no later than 11:00 am on market day to the Market Staff at the Durango Farmers Market info booth. 

  • Reimbursement of FAP coupons and DFM Tokens to the vendor can be done by: 

  • Receiving payment by check may result in slower reimbursement. The Durango Farmers Market Bookkeeper will process payments in a timely fashion, with a goal of two weeks. 

  • Receiving payment by an ACH transfer.

    •  The authorization form for ACH is available on the online platform.

    • Note: ACH payments can be processed quicker, therefore vendors are encouraged to fill out and submit the ACH authorization after acceptance to the market. 

  • All DFM Tokens and FAP coupons must be submitted for reimbursement within the current market year. 


XI. Vendor Concerns, Complaints, Or Compliance Challenges

All vendor concerns, complaints or compliance challenges must be brought to the attention of Market Staff. All written correspondence must include: Your Name, Name of Business, Phone Number, and Email, along with a fully detailed description of the issue, or submission of an applicable form. Depending on the level of attention your issue may require, please use the table below to determine your next steps. 


Table 7: Vendor Concerns, Complaints, or Compliance Challenge Steps

Issue Description Step 1:
Who to contact?
Step 2:
Submission of Issue
Step 3:
Due Process

Concern
Contact
Market Staff
In-person or via email
The Market Staff will determine if the concern requires a form, or can be resolved easily with the Executive Director.
_______________________
Safety of the Market Contact
Market Staff Immediately

________________________

_______________________

Complaint
Contact
Executive Director
Via email
Must submit a formal complaint in writing, via email, or use the Formal Complaint Form to submit The Executive Director will handle the complaint until they find it necessary to involve the Board of Directors to determine a resolution.
Compliance Challenge:
Market Policies or Legal?
Contact
Executive Director
Via email
Must submit a formal compliance challenge in writing, via email, or use the Formal Compliance Form to submit. The Executive Director will handle the challenge until they find it necessary to involve the Board of Directors to determine a resolution.
A site visit may be required.

Unsatisfactory Resolution
Contact
Executive Director
Via email

Submit evidence as to why the resolution was unsatisfactory.
A service fee will be required for further investigation beyond the scope of Market Staff and/or requiring an outside expert for investigation.

PROTECTIVE ORDER AND RESPONSIBILITY OF THE MARKET GOVERNANCE

The Executive Director and the Board of Directors, as a collective, reserve the right to revoke membership and participation for any exceptional reason that may not be addressed in these Rules and Regulations, nor the Bylaws, but that presents an issue(s) found to not be in the best interest of the Durango Farmers Market and its participating entities. 

The Executive Director and all members of the Board of Directors sign a Conflict of Interest Policy to ensure fair and just deliberations for any and all vendor concerns, complaints, or compliance challenges. 

DISCLOSURE POLICY FOR CONCERNS, COMPLAINTS, AND COMPLIANCE CHALLENGES 

Confidentiality During Resolution Process

All information related to complaints and their resolutions must remain confidential. Vendors, the Executive Director, and Board of Directors must not disclose sensitive details to external parties or other vendors during the resolution process unless such information is necessary to complete the investigation. The Executive Director is responsible for maintaining any and all official disclosure documents submitted for concerns, complaints, and/or compliance challenges. Violations of this confidentiality requirement, as determined by the Executive Director, may result in disciplinary action (See below). 

Any information disclosed after the dispute process has concluded must be communicated respectfully and in a manner that upholds the best interests of all parties involved and the Durango Farmers Market.


Post-Resolution Disclosure

After a  complaint is resolved:

  • A summary of findings may be shared with involved parties.

  • General information about the complaint and resolution may be disclosed to the broader vendor community, but is not required.

  • Legal obligations may require disclosure in compliance with applicable laws.

Mediation

If mediation is requested, both parties must sign a contract with the mediator regarding payment responsibilities. If the submitting vendor believes the issue was not resolved sufficiently, a professional facilitator or mediator may be engaged by them to help resolve the issue. If the submitting vendor seeks mediation, they will be responsible to pay 75% of the expense; alternatively, if the Executive Director/Board of Directors seeks mediation, Durango Farmers Market will be responsible to pay 75% of the expense. When mediation is mutually requested, the cost will be split equally between both parties.

A summary of the mediation outcome may be disclosed as outlined above, but disclosure is not mandatory.

CODE OF CONDUCT, VENDOR SUSPENSION, AND DISCIPLINARY ACTION 

Any vendor may be suspended from selling by action of the Executive Director and/or the Board of Directors for failure to comply with the Rules and Regulations, Bylaws, or any other policy pertaining to the Durango Farmers Market. 

Misconduct, as described below, will be cause for suspension and/or disciplinary action by the Executive Director and/or the Board of Directors. Unprofessional behavior(s), for example, but not limited to: 

  • Maligning and derogatory language directed at other vendors and/or their products.

  • Challenges to the authority of any Market Staff enforcing the Rules and Regulations, Bylaws or policies of the Durango Farmers Market.  

  • Behaving in a rude, violent, threatening, or intimidating manner toward any person at the market.

  • The use of social media in a non-professional, maligning or derogatory manner directed at the Durango Farmers Market or any of its vendors. 


The offending vendor may be asked to not attend any further markets until the issue has been resolved in the opinion of the Executive Director and/or the Board of Directors. 

The issue is to be documented and communicated via email to all affected parties by the Executive Director. If deemed necessary by the Executive Director, the Board of Directors may be brought into the matter for further exploration of disciplinary action. 

It is the responsibility of the Executive Director, the Board of Directors, and Market Staff to uphold the safety and best interest of the Durango Farmers Market and all participating entities at all times. 


 XII. Resources


XIII. Liability Statement

RELEASE OF LIABILITY

As a condition of membership and participation, each Member and Non-Member Vendor will sign an agreement to release, indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Durango Farmers Market (a Colorado nonprofit corporation), its Board of Directors, officers, agents, employees, volunteers, and representatives from any and all claims, actions, demands, liabilities, losses, damages, costs, and expenses (including, but not limited to, reasonable attorney’s fees). This indemnification agreement is included in the application on the online platform.


ADDENDUM

CHILE ROASTING 

This addendum is supplemental information for Agricultural Producers who apply to roast chiles at the market. Chile roaster placement is subject to the requirements set forth by the Durango Fire Marshal and should be reviewed annually with the fire department by the Executive Director before a placement plan is made.

 Below are requirements from the fire department from a discussion in late 2022:

  • The roasting equipment must be 10 feet from any combustibles, such as, but not limited to, a wood chip filled planter, landscaped area, or a tent/canopy. 

  • The public may not come within 3 feet of the flames of the roaster. 

  • The Agricultural Producer must have their roasting set up inspected by the Durango Fire Marshal for approval prior to first use at the market to ensure the safety of the equipment that will be used at the market. The vendor must obtain some form of written verification that the equipment was inspected and approved by the Durango Fire Marshal, or the Marshal’s designated representative. This verification must be provided to the Executive Director before first use at Durango Farmers Market. 

2026 PILOT: INVITATION-ONLY GUEST AG VENDORS FROM OUTSIDE OF THE 6 COUNTIES

This pilot would be an opportunity for the Durango Farmers Market, by invitation of the Executive Director ONLY, to allow Colorado or New Mexico farms and vendors to participate in our market. These Agricultural vendors would provide a product(s) that is either unavailable, has a short season for our local vendors, or has been repeatedly sought after by market goers.This pilot is meant to test whether or not an option of this style would draw more market goers who may come for specific items like sweet corn, peaches, apples, stone fruit, etc.  

  • The Executive Director, in consultation with the Board of Directors, will determine the number of Guest Ag vendors to be invited, the number of markets any one vendor can attend, and a booth fee(s).

  • Booth Allowance: One 10 ft x10 ft booth space per market

  • These vendors will be required to apply to DFM with a nonrefundable application fee of $35.00.

  • These vendors will be subject to these Rules & Regulations, excepting the county limitation.

  • A sign or banner will indicate to market goers that there is a Guest Ag Vendor from outside our local counties. The booth location will be in the same general location through the season. 

  • Marketing will be done to inform market goers of a Guest Ag Vendor attending the market. 


AG-VAAP QUALIFYING EXAMPLES (including, but not limited to)

Main Ingredient- AG-VAAP Additional Ingredients Justification End Product
Herbs/Botanicals Alcohol, Water Carrier Tincture, Hydrosol
Herbs/Botanicals/Beeswax/Tallow Oil, Lye Carrier, Binder Salve, Lotion, Soap
Herbs/Botanicals Oil Carrier Infused Oil
Vegetables, Fruit Vinegar, Salt, Citric Acid, Sugar Preservation Method, PH Control Pickled Vegetables, Jams