What Permits and Licenses Do You Need to Open a Restaurant in Wisconsin?
Complete guide to all permits and licenses required to open a restaurant in Wisconsin, including food dealer licenses, liquor licenses, business licenses, and sign permits.
Yes, you typically need a permit. To open a restaurant in most Wisconsin municipalities, you need Food Dealer License, General Business License, On-Premise Liquor License (Class B), and Permanent Sign Permit. Here's exactly what's required.
Permits Required
The following permits are typically required to open a restaurant in Wisconsin. Actual requirements vary by municipality.
Food Dealer License
Required for any establishment that prepares, serves, or sells food to the public in Wisconsin. Regulated under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 97 and DATCP (Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection) rules. Restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries, caterers, and food manufacturers all need a food dealer license. Municipal health departments conduct inspections; state licensing is through DATCP.
Inspection required after work is completed.
General Business License
Required for operating most types of businesses within a Wisconsin municipality. The general business license (sometimes called a business registration or business tax certificate) ensures that the business complies with local zoning, building, fire, and health codes. Requirements and fees vary by municipality — not all Wisconsin cities require a general business license.
On-Premise Liquor License (Class B)
Required for selling alcohol for consumption on the premises in Wisconsin (bars, restaurants, taverns). Wisconsin issues liquor licenses at the municipal level under Chapter 125 of the Wisconsin Statutes. Each municipality has a limited number of licenses (quota system) based on population. Class B licenses authorize the sale of intoxicating liquor by the drink; a separate Class B beer license is often also needed.
Inspection required after work is completed.
Permanent Sign Permit
Required for installing, replacing, or modifying permanent signs in Wisconsin, including wall signs, monument signs, pole signs, projecting signs, and awning signs. Wisconsin municipalities regulate signs through their zoning ordinances, controlling size, height, illumination, placement, and materials. Sign regulations vary dramatically between municipalities and zoning districts.
Inspection required after work is completed.
Where to Apply
Permit requirements, fees, and processing times vary by municipality. Check the specific requirements for your location:
Browse all jurisdictions →Exemptions & Special Cases
In some circumstances, a permit may not be required. Common exemptions include:
- Food Dealer License: Home bakers selling under Wisconsin's cottage food law (Pickle Bill)
- Food Dealer License: Temporary food stands at farmers markets (separate temporary permit)
- General Business License: Businesses in municipalities that don't require a general license
- General Business License: Home-based businesses that fall under a home occupation permit instead
- On-Premise Liquor License (Class B): Businesses that don't serve alcohol
- On-Premise Liquor License (Class B): Venues with only a beer/wine license (separate license category)
- Permanent Sign Permit: Real estate 'for sale' signs under a certain size (varies by municipality)
- Permanent Sign Permit: Political signs during election periods (protected under First Amendment)
Exemptions vary by municipality. Always confirm with your local building department before starting work without a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a food dealer license in Wisconsin?
A food dealer license, also called a retail food establishment license, is required by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) for any establishment that prepares or serves food to the public. The license must be renewed annually. Fees vary by municipality but typically range from $100 to $500. Your facility must pass a health inspection before the license is issued.
How do I get a liquor license for a restaurant in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, liquor licenses are issued by the municipality (city, village, or town). You must apply to your local clerk's office. Each municipality has a limited number of licenses based on population (1 per 500 residents for Class B beer/liquor). The application process typically takes 30 to 60 days and requires a background check, premises inspection, and approval by the local licensing committee. License fees range from $100 to $1,000 per year.
How long does it take to get all the permits to open a restaurant?
Plan for 2 to 4 months from initial applications to having all permits in hand. The food dealer license requires a health inspection (2–4 weeks). Liquor licenses can take 30–60 days and are often only issued at monthly committee meetings. Building permits for tenant improvements take 2–6 weeks for plan review. Starting all applications simultaneously is strongly recommended.
Building in multiple cities?
See permit requirements for any Wisconsin municipality instantly. Compare fees, timelines, and processes side by side across your active jurisdictions.