Amusement License

Required in many Wisconsin municipalities for operating amusement devices, game rooms, pool halls, bowling alleys, and entertainment venues. Some municipalities also require amusement licenses for jukebox machines, pinball machines, dart boards, and video game machines in bars and restaurants. Regulations and fees vary by municipality.

Verified 2026-02-01
Typical Fee Range
$25–$500
annual
Typical Timeline
1–3 weeks
From application to approval
Inspection Required
No
No inspection typically required
Jurisdiction Level
Municipal
Issuing authority level

When Is a Amusement License Required?

  • Arcades and game rooms
  • Pool halls and billiard rooms
  • Bowling alleys and entertainment centers
  • Bars and restaurants with arcade games or pool tables (in some municipalities)

When Is a Amusement License NOT Required?

  • Municipalities that don't regulate amusement devices
  • Private recreational facilities not open to the public

Related Permits You May Also Need

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.
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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.
→
Occupancy Permit
Required before occupying a newly constructed or substantially renovated building in Wisconsin. Also known as a Certificate of Occupancy (CO), this permit confirms that the building has passed all required inspections and complies with the applicable building codes, zoning ordinances, and fire safety requirements. A temporary occupancy permit may be issued while minor punch-list items are completed.
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Amusement License Fees by Municipality

Fee and processing time data for amusement license permits across Wisconsin municipalities. Click any jurisdiction for complete details including application links and requirements.

JurisdictionFeeProcessing TimeStatus
City of Milwaukee$1002-3 weeksCurrent
City of Madison$852-3 weeksCurrent

Data note: Fees are sourced from official municipal fee schedules and verified periodically. Actual fees may vary based on project valuation and scope. Click any jurisdiction for the most current data and direct application links.

Frequently Asked Questions — Amusement License

Do I need an amusement license in Wisconsin?

It depends on your municipality and business type. Many Wisconsin cities require an amusement license for businesses operating pool tables, arcade games, bowling lanes, or other amusement devices. Some cities license each device individually, while others license the establishment. Check your local ordinance.

How much does an amusement license cost in Wisconsin?

Fees range from $25 to $500 per year depending on the municipality and type of amusement. Some cities charge per device (e.g., $25–$50 per pool table or game machine), while others charge a flat fee for the establishment. Annual renewal is typically required.

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