What Permits Do You Need to Start a Food Truck in Wisconsin?
Guide to food truck permits and licenses in Wisconsin, including mobile food vendor permits, business licenses, health department requirements, and city-specific rules.
Yes, you typically need a permit. To start a food truck in most Wisconsin municipalities, you need Food Truck Permit, and General Business License. Here's exactly what's required.
Permits Required
The following permits are typically required to start a food truck in Wisconsin. Actual requirements vary by municipality.
Food Truck Permit
Required for operating a mobile food vending unit in Wisconsin municipalities. Food trucks must comply with both state food safety regulations (DATCP) and local municipal ordinances that govern where, when, and how food trucks can operate. Requirements vary significantly between municipalities — some are food truck-friendly, while others impose heavy restrictions.
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.
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 Truck Permit: Ice cream trucks in some municipalities (separate vendor license)
- Food Truck Permit: Temporary food stands at permitted special events (separate event 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
Exemptions vary by municipality. Always confirm with your local building department before starting work without a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What permits do I need for a food truck in Wisconsin?
Food trucks in Wisconsin need a mobile food vendor permit from each municipality where they operate, plus a retail food establishment license from DATCP or the local health department. You also need a general business license. Each city has its own food truck ordinance — Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay all have different rules for where food trucks can park, operating hours, and proximity to restaurants.
Do I need a separate permit for every city I operate in?
Yes. Wisconsin does not have a statewide mobile food vendor permit. You need a permit from each municipality where you operate. Some cities offer daily, weekly, or annual permits. Milwaukee charges $525/year for a mobile food vending license. Madison requires a vending license plus location-specific approval. Fees and requirements vary significantly across the state.
What health department requirements apply to food trucks in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin food trucks must meet DATCP's mobile food establishment standards, including proper handwashing facilities, food temperature control, waste water containment, and a commissary agreement (a licensed commercial kitchen for food prep and cleaning). You must pass an initial health inspection and are subject to unannounced inspections throughout the year. All food handlers must have a food safety certification.
Building in multiple cities?
See permit requirements for any Wisconsin municipality instantly. Compare fees, timelines, and processes side by side across your active jurisdictions.