Licenses and Permits Vary Greatly Based on Your Industry

Avoid Penalties and Delays

Before you launch your business, it’s critical to understand your legal obligations. Depending on your industry and location, you may need state, county, or city licenses or permits to operate.

Here’s a simplified breakdown for Wisconsin entrepreneurs.

‍

Step 1: Know Your Industry

Some professions require state-level licensing. Examples:

• Cosmetologists and barbers
• Contractors and electricians
• Food service businesses
• Daycares
• Real estate agents
  Use the Wisconsin DSPS License Lookup to check.

‍

‍

Step 2: Check Local Requirements

Even if your industry isn’t state-regulated, your city or county may require:

• Business licenses
• Zoning permits
• Home occupation permits

Start by visiting your local government’s website (e.g., City of Milwaukee or Wauwatosa) and searching “business license.”)

‍

‍

Step 3: Check for Sales and Use Tax Obligations

If you sell physical goods or taxable services, you’ll likely need to:

• Register for a Wisconsin Seller’s Permit:
  
  • Learn How to Register Here
• Collect and remit sales tax

‍

Step 4: Keep Everything Up to Date

• Licenses often need annual renewal
• Update your address or business details as required
• Keep digital and printed copies of approvals

‍

When in Doubt, Ask

You don’t want to find out after the fact that you’ve been operating illegally. A brief call to your city hall or chamber of commerce can go a long way.

‍