Sidewalk Cafe Permit in City of Madison
Complete requirements, fees, and application details for obtaining a sidewalk cafe permit in City of Madison, Wisconsin.
A sidewalk cafe permit in City of Madison costs $200 + $1.25/sq ft. Processing takes 3-4 weeks. Applications can be submitted online.
This data was verified against official City of Madison records as of 2026-02-15. Source: City of Madison permit office (www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection).
Requirements
| Fee | $200 + $1.25/sq ft |
| Processing Time | 3-4 weeks |
| Application | Apply online → |
| Inspections Required | No |
| Contact | (608) 266-4551 |
| Office Hours | Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Last Verified | 2026-02-15 |
How to Apply for a Sidewalk Cafe Permit in City of Madison
- Determine requirements. Confirm that your project requires a sidewalk cafe permit by contacting the City of Madison permit office at (608) 266-4551.
- Prepare documents. Gather required plans, specifications, contractor credentials, and any supporting documentation for your application.
- Submit application. Apply online through the City of Madison online portal, or submit in person at 215 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Suite 017, Madison, WI 53703.
- Pay fees. The fee for a sidewalk cafe permit in City of Madison is $200 + $1.25/sq ft. Fees are typically due at time of application.
- Await review. Processing typically takes 3-4 weeks. You will be notified when your permit is approved or if additional information is needed.
Sidewalk Cafe Permit in Other Jurisdictions
Frequently Asked Questions — Sidewalk Cafe Permit in City of Madison
How much does a sidewalk cafe permit cost in City of Madison?
A sidewalk cafe permit in City of Madison costs $200 + $1.25/sq ft. Fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. Contact the City of Madison permit office for an exact fee quote for your project.
How long does it take to get a sidewalk cafe permit in City of Madison?
Processing time for a sidewalk cafe permit in City of Madison is typically 3-4 weeks. Timelines depend on project complexity and current application volume. Plan submissions during off-peak periods may be processed faster.
Can I apply for a sidewalk cafe permit online in City of Madison?
Yes. City of Madison accepts online permit applications. You can submit your sidewalk cafe permit application, upload required documents, and pay fees through the online portal.
What happens if I start work without a sidewalk cafe permit in City of Madison?
Working without a required sidewalk cafe permit in City of Madison can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of unpermitted work, and complications when selling the property. Always obtain the required permit before beginning work.
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