Sidewalk Cafe Permit

Required for operating an outdoor dining area on a public sidewalk or right-of-way in Wisconsin. The permit authorizes the placement of tables, chairs, barriers, and other dining furniture within a designated area of the public sidewalk. Requirements typically address minimum pedestrian clearance, furniture placement, ADA accessibility, hours of operation, and insurance.

Verified 2026-02-01
Typical Fee Range
$50–$500
seasonal
Typical Timeline
2–4 weeks
From application to approval
Inspection Required
No
No inspection typically required
Jurisdiction Level
Municipal
Issuing authority level

When Is a Sidewalk Cafe Permit Required?

  • Tables and chairs on a public sidewalk for dining
  • Seasonal outdoor dining areas adjacent to restaurants
  • Outdoor bar or drink service on public right-of-way

When Is a Sidewalk Cafe Permit NOT Required?

  • Outdoor dining on private property (may still require zoning approval)
  • Indoor restaurants with no outdoor seating

Related Permits You May Also Need

Right-of-Way Occupancy Permit
Required for temporarily or permanently occupying, obstructing, or placing objects within the public right-of-way in Wisconsin. Covers dumpster placement, construction staging, scaffolding, temporary lane closures, and any activity that affects the public right-of-way. The permit ensures public safety, accessibility, and traffic management during the occupation.
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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.
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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.
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Sidewalk Cafe Permit Fees by Municipality

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

JurisdictionFeeProcessing TimeStatus
City of Milwaukee$150 + $1/sq ft3-4 weeksCurrent
City of Madison$200 + $1.25/sq ft3-4 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 — Sidewalk Cafe Permit

Can I set up outdoor dining on the sidewalk in Wisconsin?

Yes, with a sidewalk cafe permit from your municipality. You'll need to maintain minimum pedestrian clearance (typically 5–6 feet of unobstructed sidewalk), carry liability insurance naming the municipality as an additional insured, and follow rules about furniture, barriers, hours of operation, and ADA accessibility.

Can I serve alcohol at a sidewalk cafe in Wisconsin?

Yes, if your liquor license covers the outdoor area. You typically need to designate the sidewalk cafe area as an extension of your licensed premises, which may require approval from the licensing committee. Physical barriers separating the cafe from the public sidewalk are usually required when alcohol is served.

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