Off-Premise Liquor License (Class A) — Wisconsin Requirements & Fees | Permit Guide | Permit Guide

Typical Fee Range

$500–$1,500

annual

Typical Timeline

4–12 weeks (includes background check and public hearing)

From application to approval

Inspection Required

Yes

One or more inspections required

Jurisdiction Level

Municipal

Issuing authority level

When Is a Off-Premise Liquor License (Class A) Required?

Liquor stores and package stores
Grocery stores selling spirits
Convenience stores selling spirits

When Is a Off-Premise Liquor License (Class A) NOT Required?

Stores selling only beer and wine (separate Class A beer/wine license)
Businesses that don't sell alcohol

Related Permits You May Also Need

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.

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.

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.

Required Licenses

The following professional licenses may be required to obtain or work under this permit type in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Responsible Beverage Server Training (recommended)

Off-Premise Liquor License (Class A) Fees by Municipality

Fee and processing time data for off-premise liquor license (class a) permits across Wisconsin municipalities. Click any jurisdiction for complete details including application links and requirements.

Jurisdiction	Fee	Processing Time	Status
City of Milwaukee	$500-$1,000	6-10 weeks	Current
City of Madison	$500-$1,250	6-10 weeks	Current

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 — Off-Premise Liquor License (Class A)

What's the difference between Class A and Class B liquor licenses?

Class A is for off-premise consumption (retail sales in sealed packages — liquor stores, grocery stores). Class B is for on-premise consumption (bars, restaurants). Wisconsin also has separate license categories for beer vs. intoxicating liquor, and for fermented malt beverages vs. wine. Most businesses need multiple licenses to cover their operations.

Can a grocery store sell liquor in Wisconsin?

Yes, with a Class A liquor license. Wisconsin allows grocery stores, convenience stores, and other retail establishments to sell spirits, wine, and beer with the appropriate licenses. Unlike some states, Wisconsin does not restrict liquor sales to standalone liquor stores.

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