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.

Verified 2026-02-01
Typical Fee Range
$25–$200
flat
Typical Timeline
1–4 weeks
From application to approval
Inspection Required
No
No inspection typically required
Jurisdiction Level
Municipal
Issuing authority level

When Is a Home Occupation Permit Required?

  • Running a business from your home (consulting, e-commerce, tutoring)
  • Operating a home-based salon, studio, or therapy practice
  • Home-based childcare beyond a certain number of children

When Is a Home Occupation Permit NOT Required?

  • Occasional remote work for an employer (not a home business)
  • Selling items online with no customers visiting the property (in some municipalities)

Related Permits You May Also Need

Zoning Compliance Letter
A written statement from the municipal zoning department confirming that a property's current or proposed use complies with the local zoning ordinance. Often required by lenders, title companies, and buyers during real estate transactions in Wisconsin. Also known as a zoning verification letter or zoning certificate.
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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.
→
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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Home Occupation Permit Fees by Municipality

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

JurisdictionFeeProcessing TimeStatus
City of Milwaukee$501-2 weeksCurrent
City of Madison$401-2 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 — Home Occupation Permit

Can I run a business from my home in Wisconsin?

Yes, but you typically need a home occupation permit from your municipality. Conditions usually include limiting business use to 25% of the home, no exterior signage or only a small sign, no non-resident employees, no customer traffic (or very limited), and no outdoor storage of business materials.

What types of home businesses are prohibited in Wisconsin?

Businesses that generate significant traffic, noise, odors, or visual impact are typically prohibited as home occupations. This includes automotive repair, manufacturing, commercial food production (though cottage food laws provide some exceptions), and businesses requiring hazardous materials storage. Rules vary by municipality.

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