What Permits Do You Need to Start a Home Business in Wisconsin?
Guide to home occupation permits in Wisconsin, covering zoning requirements, allowed business types, signage rules, parking requirements, and employee restrictions.
Yes, you typically need a permit. To start a home business in most Wisconsin municipalities, you need Home Occupation Permit, and General Business License. Here's exactly what's required.
Permits Required
The following permits are typically required to start a home business in Wisconsin. Actual requirements vary by municipality.
Home Occupation Permit
Required for operating a business from a residential property in Wisconsin. Most municipalities allow home occupations under certain conditions — typically limiting the percentage of the home used for business, restricting signage, prohibiting employees and walk-in customers, and requiring that the residential character of the property is maintained. Some home occupations are permitted by right; others require a conditional use permit.
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:
- Home Occupation Permit: Occasional remote work for an employer (not a home business)
- Home Occupation Permit: Selling items online with no customers visiting the property (in some municipalities)
- 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
Do I need a permit to run a business from home in Wisconsin?
In most Wisconsin municipalities, yes. Home businesses (home occupations) require a home occupation permit or conditional use permit from your city's zoning department, plus a general business license. Some cities distinguish between minor home occupations (no clients visiting, no employees) and major home occupations (client visits, one employee), with different permit requirements for each.
What types of businesses can I run from home in Wisconsin?
Allowed home occupations vary by municipality but generally include professional services (consulting, accounting, graphic design), online businesses, small-scale crafts, and tutoring. Most zoning codes prohibit home businesses that generate significant traffic, noise, or deliveries. Retail sales with walk-in customers, auto repair, and manufacturing are typically not allowed as home occupations. Food businesses from home require additional health department approval.
Can I have employees for a home-based business in Wisconsin?
Most Wisconsin municipalities limit home-based businesses to no employees or one non-resident employee. Some cities restrict home occupations to family members only. If your business needs more than one employee working at your residence, you will likely need a conditional use permit or may need to operate from a commercial location. Check your local zoning code for specific employee limits.
Building in multiple cities?
See permit requirements for any Wisconsin municipality instantly. Compare fees, timelines, and processes side by side across your active jurisdictions.