Madison, WI Business License Guide

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box (bookmark these)

• Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal — register your business with the state — official portal for forming LLCs/corps, tax registration, and UI setup.
  https://onestop.wi.gov/
• City of Madison Licenses & Permits — Clerk’s Office hub — find city license applications (alcohol, tobacco, secondhand dealers, vending, entertainment, more).
  https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
• Public Health Madison & Dane County — food, mobile food, and lodging licenses — required if you serve food/drink, operate a food truck, or run lodging/short‑term rental.
  https://www.publichealthmdc.com/
• Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) Business Tax Registration — get your seller’s permit and withholding tax account.
  https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Businesses/btr.aspx
• City of Madison Zoning & Occupancy — check if your location is allowed.
  https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning
• Building Inspection, Permits & Inspections — sign permits, occupancy, build‑out, fire code; schedule inspections.
  https://www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection
• IRS — get your EIN free.
  https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online
• WI DWD — Unemployment Insurance for Employers — register if you meet thresholds.
  https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/

Note: Links above go to official government sites. Always confirm current forms and fees on those pages.

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Do you need a “general business license” in Madison?

Most people ask this first, so here’s the straight answer:

Madison does not issue a universal “city business license” for every business. Instead, you’ll register with the State of Wisconsin, and then you may need specific city/county/state licenses based on what you do (food, alcohol, massage, secondhand, vending, lodging, taxis, etc.).

You also must make sure your location is legal for your use (zoning), and that you have the right building/fire/occupancy approvals before opening to the public.

Start here:

• Check your business type against the City Clerk’s list: City of Madison Licenses & Permits — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
• If you will sell taxable goods or services, register for Wisconsin DOR Business Tax Registration (includes seller’s permit): DOR Business Tax Registration — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Businesses/btr.aspx
• If you serve food or run lodging (hotel, B&B, short‑term rental), get licensed by Public Health Madison & Dane County (PHMDC): PHMDC Food Licensing — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/
• Verify zoning/occupancy for your address: City Zoning — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning and Building Inspection — https://www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection

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Who issues what (at a glance)

Sources: City of Madison licensing hub, PHMDC licensing, WI DFI, WI DOR, WI DWD, WI DSPS, and IRS (links above).

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What to do if this doesn’t work

If you’re not sure which licenses apply, use the City Clerk’s directory to scan your industry. If still unclear, email through the Clerk’s contact page on Licenses & Permits with a one‑paragraph description of your business.

For complicated setups (combining food, alcohol, and entertainment), ask for a zoning verification first: Zoning contact page — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning so you don’t sign a bad lease.

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Fast‑track checklist: Madison business licensing from idea to opening

1. Pick your legal structure (LLC is common for small businesses). Verify name availability and register your entity with DFI via the Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal. LLC online filing fee is $130 (DFI). Source: DFI Business Entities — https://www.wdfi.org/
2. Get your EIN from the IRS (cost $0). Source: IRS — Apply for EIN — https://www.irs.gov/
3. Register for Wisconsin DOR Business Tax Registration if you’ll sell taxable items or have employees. See DOR BTR — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Businesses/btr.aspx
4. Choose your Madison location carefully. Before you sign, confirm zoning/occupancy and needed permits: Zoning — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning and Building Inspection — https://www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection
5. If you serve food, apply for PHMDC health licensing and schedule your pre‑inspection: PHMDC Food Licensing — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/
6. Apply for any City of Madison business licenses you need (alcohol, tobacco, secondhand, vending, entertainment, etc.) at the City Clerk: City Clerk Licenses & Permits — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
7. Line up required insurance (workers’ compensation if you meet thresholds; liquor liability if selling alcohol; general liability if your landlord or license requires it). See DWD Worker’s Compensation for Employers — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/ and City license pages linked above.
8. Post required notices, complete inspections, and don’t open before approvals. Keep copies of your licenses on‑site.

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Typical timeline (realistic)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Tight timeline? Book a zoning consult early and ask PHMDC about seasonal backlogs. Lease pressure? Add a contingency clause for “approvals received by [date]” so you can exit if permits stall.

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Register your legal business with the State (DFI)

Start here before city licenses. Your state entity sets your legal name and ownership.

File online through the Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal or directly with DFI Business Entities.

Pick a unique name (DFI will check). Consider a registered agent with a Wisconsin street address.

Filing fees (as of August 2025):

• LLC Articles of Organization filed online: $130. Source: DFI Business Entities — https://www.wdfi.org/
• Other entity fees (corporations, limited partnerships, etc.) vary; see DFI’s current fee schedule on the page above for exact amounts.

Annual reports:

Wisconsin requires most entities to file an annual report with DFI and pay a fee (LLC annual report commonly $25). Due date depends on your entity type and anniversary; check your entity’s due date and fee in DFI’s portal. Source: DFI Annual Reports — https://www.wdfi.org/

EIN:

Get your EIN after forming your entity: IRS — Apply for EIN (free) — https://www.irs.gov/

Table: Common state registrations

Real‑world example (Madison):

A freelance web designer forms a single‑member LLC online on a Monday morning, pays $130,getsconfirmationinunderanhour,andanEINthesamedayfor$0. They work from home, so they don’t need a city license besides verifying that home‑based business rules are followed (see “Home‑based business” below). Sources: DFI and IRS.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If DFI rejects your name, tweak it and resubmit the same day. If the online filing stalls, call or use the contact options at DFI Business Entities — https://www.wdfi.org/

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Get your tax accounts (DOR, UI, local taxes)

Start this early; you often need tax IDs before city licenses.

• Register for the Wisconsin Business Tax Registration (BTR) if you will collect sales tax, use tax, or have employees. See DOR BTR — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Businesses/btr.aspx
• Sales and use tax rate in Madison:
  • State sales tax: 5.0% — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/
  • Dane County county sales tax: 0.5% — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/
  • Total in Madison: 5.5%
• Seller’s permit: Issued via the DOR BTR process. DOR may request additional info or security in some cases. Source: DOR — Do I need a seller’s permit? — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/
• Withholding tax: If you have employees, add a withholding tax account in your BTR. Deposit schedules and filing vary by payroll size. Source: DOR Withholding Tax for Employers — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Businesses/withholding.aspx
• Unemployment Insurance (UI): Register with DWD when you meet thresholds. Wisconsin’s UI taxable wage base and thresholds are available at DWD UI for Employers — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/
• Room tax (lodging and short‑term rentals): The City of Madison imposes a room tax on gross receipts from lodging. Verify your exact rate and reporting at the City’s page: City of Madison Room Tax — Treasurer — https://www.cityofmadison.com/treasurer
• Personal property tax: Wisconsin repealed most business personal property tax beginning with assessments as of January 1, 2024. Confirm how this affects your filings and if any remnants apply to your situation. Source: DOR — Personal Property Tax Changes — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/

Table: Tax accounts you might need

Real‑world example (retail in Madison):

A Monroe Street boutique registers BTR, collects 5.5% sales tax (state + Dane County), and files returns with DOR. The shop doesn’t need a city business license but does need a City Weights & Measures license if it uses a scale or price scanner (see City). Sources: DOR tax rates; City Weights & Measures.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If the BTR system flags your application, use the contact options listed on the DOR page above. Keep your EIN and entity documents ready. If you’re unsure whether a service is taxable, check DOR Publication 201: Wisconsin Sales and Use Tax Information — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/

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Zoning, occupancy, and building permits (City of Madison)

Before you sign a lease or start construction, confirm you can legally operate at your address.

• Zoning use approval: Use the City’s zoning resources to verify your proposed use is allowed at the site: City of Madison Zoning — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning. If you’re changing the use (e.g., retail to restaurant), additional approvals may apply.
• Occupancy and building: For build‑outs, new signs, or changing the space, you’ll likely need permits and inspections from Building Inspection — https://www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection. Don’t skip fire and egress requirements for public occupancy.
• Signs: Most exterior signs require a sign permit. Madison has size, location, and illumination limits. See Building Inspection — Sign Permits — https://www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection
• Fire prevention: The Madison Fire Department enforces fire code and life safety requirements. Plan for inspections, extinguishers, and alarm/suppression systems if required. Start with Madison Fire Department — Prevention — https://www.cityofmadison.com/fire

Table: Typical city approvals depending on your situation

Real‑world example (downtown café):

A State Street café converted a retail space to a coffee shop. They confirmed zoning first, then submitted building plans for a small bar and sinks, coordinated a grease interceptor per code, obtained PHMDC approval and a pre‑inspection, passed fire inspection, and received occupancy. Total time: about 8–10 weeks across all steps. Sources: City zoning/BI pages; PHMDC.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If zoning is not allowed, ask about a different zoning district or conditional use procedures on the Zoning page — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning. If your build‑out is stuck, request a plan review meeting via Building Inspection — https://www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection

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Health licenses for food, drink, and lodging (PHMDC)

If you serve food or beverages, or operate lodging (including many short‑term rentals), you need health licensing from Public Health Madison & Dane County.

Start with PHMDC’s guide: Food Establishment Licensing — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/

Common license types:

• Restaurant/Retail Food Establishment (fixed location)
• Mobile Food Facility (food trucks, trailers, carts)
• Temporary Food (events)
• Tourist Rooming House (short‑term rentals), Hotels/Motels
• Shared kitchens/commissaries

Inspections:

Most new establishments require a pre‑inspection. Schedule early to avoid seasonal delays.

Fees:

Fees vary by risk category, size, and type. As of August 2025, PHMDC publishes an annual fee schedule (restaurants, mobiles, retail, lodging). For exact current fees, consult PHMDC’s official fee list: PHMDC Environmental Health Fees — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/

Short‑term rentals in Madison:

You may need a Tourist Rooming House license through PHMDC plus compliance with Madison zoning. Start with: PHMDC Lodging/Short‑Term Rentals — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/ and City of Madison — Short‑Term Rentals/Zoning — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning

Table: PHMDC licensing snapshot (verify your category and fee)

Real‑world example (food truck in Madison):

A taco truck operator obtains a Mobile Food Facility license from PHMDC, signs a commissary/kitchen agreement, gets a City vending license for approved zones, and passes a propane/fire safety check. They plan 3–4 weeks for health licensing in spring (longer near summer), and 2–4 weeks for city vending approvals. Sources: PHMDC and City Clerk licensing pages.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Call PHMDC using the contact page on the link above to ask which category fits your exact setup (commissary vs. self‑contained). If your truck can’t secure a commissary, ask PHMDC about shared kitchens or approved alternatives.

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City business licenses (alcohol, tobacco, secondhand, massage, vending, entertainment)

Madison licenses certain business activities through the City Clerk. Read the instructions carefully and expect background checks for some categories.

• Alcohol beverage licenses: Process is public and can take 6–10 weeks (publication, committee review, Common Council approval). Reserve Class B Combination (liquor) licenses may require a one‑time additional $10,000 “reserve” fee under Wis. Stat. §125.51. Start here: City of Madison — Alcohol Licenses — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits and Wis. Stat. ch. 125 — https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/125
• Cigarette/Tobacco: Retailers need a city license to sell cigarettes or tobacco products. See: City Clerk’s Tobacco License — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
• Secondhand article dealers/pawnbrokers: Subject to background checks, reporting, and recordkeeping. See City Clerk license pages above — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
• Massage establishments and massage therapists: Establishments need a city license; therapists typically need state credentialing through DSPS. See: City Clerk — Massage License — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits and DSPS Massage Therapy — https://dsps.wi.gov/
• Public Passenger vehicles (taxis, limos), entertainment, coin‑operated amusement devices, and other categories: See the full City license index: City of Madison Licenses & Permits — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
• Weights & Measures: If you use scales, fuel pumps, or price scanners, you need a City Weights & Measures license and device inspections. Start at: City of Madison — Weights & Measures — https://www.cityofmadison.com/finance/weights-measures. State program info: DATCP Weights & Measures — https://datcp.wi.gov/
• Street vending (food carts, sidewalk cafes, arts/crafts): Madison regulates vending on sidewalks and in certain districts. Permits/locations are limited; some require a “good standing” status and proofs (insurance, health license). Begin at the City Clerk’s portal under vending-related licenses: Licenses & Permits — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits

Table: City licenses (selected examples)

Real‑world example (neighborhood bar):

The owners apply for a Class B Combination license in Madison. Because the city’s quota is tight, their license may be a “reserve” license with an additional $10,000 one‑time reserve fee (state law). They plan for committee and council hearings, neighborhood input, and at least 8–10 weeks from application to issuance. Sources: Wis. Stat. §125.51(3)(e); City Clerk.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If an alcohol license isn’t available this year, consider starting with beer/wine (if available) or locating in a site with an existing non‑reserve license you can acquire (subject to city approval). Talk with the City Clerk and your alder early.

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Home‑based business (Madison)

Many Madison businesses start at home. Keep it low‑impact and follow the rules.

• Zoning: Home occupation rules limit signage, traffic, employees on site, and certain activities. Check whether your planned activity is allowed and if you need a Zoning Use Permit. Start with: Zoning — Home Occupations — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning
• Health: If you prepare food, you generally cannot do it in a standard home kitchen for retail sale unless you meet cottage food exemptions or use an approved shared kitchen. See PHMDC guidance: PHMDC Food Licensing — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/ and DOR/DATCP resources for cottage foods if applicable.
• Business tax: Home‑based sales of taxable goods/services still require DOR registration and collection of 5.5% sales tax when applicable. Source: DOR Publication 201 — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If your activity isn’t allowed at home, ask zoning about small office suites or co‑working space that fits your use, or use a shared kitchen for food production.

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Sign permits and advertising

Most exterior signs need a permit from Building Inspection — Sign Permits — https://www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection. Historic districts and multi‑tenant centers can have extra rules.

• Temporary banners may need permits depending on size/time. Ask first to avoid fines.
• Digital/illuminated signs have stricter requirements for brightness and placement.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If your sign is denied, ask about a redesign within code or a smaller cabinet/monument format that meets the district’s standards.

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Employer requirements: Worker’s comp, UI, and payroll basics

Hiring even one employee adds obligations.

• Worker’s Compensation (DWD): Most Wisconsin employers must carry worker’s compensation if they have 3 or more employees, or if they pay $500+ in wages in any calendar quarter (or are in construction with any employees). Verify your exact status here: DWD Worker’s Compensation — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/
• Unemployment Insurance: Register when you pay wages above thresholds or have sufficient number of payroll weeks. See DWD UI for Employers — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/
• Withholding: Set up withholding and file/pay per DOR schedules. Source: DOR Withholding — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Businesses/withholding.aspx

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If you’re uncertain about worker classification (employee vs. contractor), use DWD’s resources or request help via the contact tools on the DWD pages linked above.

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Costs, timelines, and budgeting (quick reference tables)

Table: Typical startup costs by scenario (excluding rent/build‑out; verify fees on official links)

Sources: DFI, IRS, DOR, City Clerk, PHMDC (links provided above).

Table: Taxes you may collect/remit

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Reality checks: common pitfalls that slow Madison openings

• Signing a lease before confirming zoning and occupancy. Fix: always ask zoning first.
• Assuming food licensing is just a form. Fix: plan layout, sinks, handwashing, refrigeration, and grease management up front.
• Missing the alcohol license timeline. Fix: you need weeks for committee/council review.
• Overlooking Weights & Measures. Fix: if it weighs, measures, pumps, or scans, you need inspection and a license.
• Under‑budgeting signs. Fix: sign permits and fabrication cost time and money; plan early.
• Worker’s comp assumptions. Fix: check DWD thresholds and get coverage on time.

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Inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility resources (Madison & Wisconsin)

• Wisconsin Supplier Diversity Program (State of Wisconsin) — certifies Minority‑Owned (MBE), Woman‑Owned (WBE), Service‑Disabled Veteran‑Owned (DVB), and Emerging Small Business (ESB) firms for state procurement. https://doa.wi.gov/Pages/SupplierDiversity/default.aspx
• City of Madison Targeted Business Enterprise (TBE) Program — City of Madison TBE Program (Civil Rights) — https://www.cityofmadison.com/civil-rights
• WWBIC — Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation — https://www.wwbic.com/
• SBDC at UW–Madison — https://sbdc.wisc.edu/
• SCORE — Madison — https://www.score.org/find-mentor
• Veterans Business Outreach (VBOC) — SBA VBOC Program — https://www.sba.gov/
• Disability‑owned business resources — Wisconsin DVR — Business Services — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr/
• LGBTQ+ business resources — NGLCC Certification — https://nglcc.org/
• Immigrant‑owned businesses and language access — City of Madison — Language Access — https://www.cityofmadison.com/

PHMDC provides materials in multiple languages and can coordinate interpretation for inspections; start with PHMDC contact — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/

What to do if this doesn’t work:

If you hit walls with certification or language access, contact the City’s Department of Civil Rights via the links above and ask for accommodation or referrals to partner organizations.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the DOR BTR because you “only” sell services. Many services are taxable if they include tangible items or certain labor. Confirm with DOR Publication 201 — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/
• Opening before passing your PHMDC pre‑inspection. Even a private soft‑open can trigger enforcement.
• Not planning for the alcohol license reserve fee. If your license is “reserve,” the one‑time $10,000 fee applies at issuance.
• Missing device licenses for scales and scanners. City Weights & Measures enforces annually.
• Not posting required labor law notices. DWD and DOL postings are mandatory if you have employees.
• Using a home kitchen for commercial food production without authorization. Use a shared kitchen or qualify under specific exemptions.

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What to prepare: documents checklist

• State: Articles of Organization/Incorporation, EIN letter, registered agent info.
• Tax: DOR BTR confirmation, seller’s permit certificate, withholding registration.
• City: Zoning verification, lease with contingency, site plan, sign drawings.
• Health (if applicable): Floor plan, equipment lists/specs, commissary agreement (mobile), menu/processes.
• Insurance: Worker’s compensation when required; general liability; liquor liability if selling alcohol.
• HR: Employee handbook basics, posting requirements, UI account.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Ask the SBDC to review your packet before you submit. They can help you avoid missing items. See: UW–Madison SBDC — https://sbdc.wisc.edu/

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FAQs — Madison, Wisconsin (state‑specific)

• Do I need a general Madison business license?
  Usually no. You register with the state (DFI/DOR), then get Madison/PHMDC licenses only if your activity requires them. See City Licenses & Permits — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
• How much does it cost to form an LLC in Wisconsin?
  Online LLC filing is $130 (DFI). Source: DFI Business Entities — https://www.wdfi.org/
• What is the sales tax in Madison?
  5.5% (5.0% state + 0.5% Dane County). Source: DOR Tax Rates — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/
• How long does an alcohol license take?
  Plan 6–10 weeks or more due to publication and council. Reserve license may add a one‑time $10,000 fee per state law. Sources: Wis. Stat. ch. 125 — https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/125 and City Alcohol Licenses — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
• Is the seller’s permit free?
  It’s included in the DOR Business Tax Registration; check DOR for the current BTR fee and renewal schedule — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Businesses/btr.aspx
• Do I need a PHMDC license to sell packaged snacks only?
  Many retail food operations need PHMDC licensing depending on what and how you sell. Check PHMDC Food Licensing — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/
• What if I run a short‑term rental (Airbnb) in Madison?
  You may need a PHMDC Tourist Rooming House license and must meet Madison zoning rules. Start here: PHMDC Lodging — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/ and City Zoning — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning
• When do I need worker’s compensation insurance?
  Most employers must carry it if they have 3+ employees or pay $500+ in wages in a calendar quarter (or any employees in construction). Confirm your status: DWD Worker’s Compensation — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/
• What is Wisconsin’s unemployment insurance wage base?
  See Wisconsin DWD UI for Employers — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/
• Where can I get free help to plan my licensing steps?
  Start with the UW–Madison SBDC — https://sbdc.wisc.edu/, WWBIC — https://www.wwbic.com/, and SCORE Madison — https://www.score.org/find-mentor

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Real‑world examples (Madison)

• Mobile espresso cart: Forms an LLC ($130),getsEIN($0), registers with DOR BTR (see DOR), applies for PHMDC mobile food license and secures a commissary. Applies for a City vending license for designated zones. Total lead time 4–8 weeks before serving legally on the street. Sources: DFI, IRS, DOR, PHMDC, City Clerk.
• Vintage resale store: Forms an LLC ($130), registers DOR BTR, verifies zoning for retail. Applies for a secondhand dealer license through the City Clerk (background checks). Gets Weights & Measures if using a price scanner. Opens after occupancy. Sources: City Clerk; City Finance — Weights & Measures.
• Bar with small plates: Reserves a location, confirms zoning. Applies for Class B alcohol license (allow 8–10 weeks). Pays one‑time $10,000 reserve fee if issued a reserve license, plus city annual fee. Gets PHMDC license for food service and passes inspections. Sources: Wis. Stat. ch. 125; City Clerk; PHMDC.

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What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B playbook)

• Too many approvals at once? Sequence the work: 1) zoning/lease contingency, 2) DFI/EIN/DOR, 3) building plans, 4) city/health licenses, 5) inspections.
• Timing crunch? Launch a limited online offering first (if legal for your products) while build‑out/permits continue.
• Location blocked by zoning? Ask zoning about alternative districts or conditional uses; consider other corridors (East Wash, Park Street, Odana/Westgate area, etc.) with the right use by right.
• No alcohol license available? Consider beer/wine only, or acquire an existing license with city approval, or open as a non‑alcohol concept while awaiting availability.

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Key source links (verified August 2025)

• City of Madison — Licenses & Permits (Clerk) — https://www.cityofmadison.com/clerk/licenses-permits
• City of Madison — Zoning — https://www.cityofmadison.com/planning
• City of Madison — Building Inspection — https://www.cityofmadison.com/building-inspection
• City of Madison — Weights & Measures — https://www.cityofmadison.com/finance/weights-measures
• City of Madison — Room Tax — Treasurer — https://www.cityofmadison.com/treasurer
• Public Health Madison & Dane County — Food Licensing — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/
• PHMDC — Environmental Health Fees — https://www.publichealthmdc.com/
• Wisconsin One Stop Business Portal — https://onestop.wi.gov/
• Wisconsin DFI — Business Entities — https://www.wdfi.org/
• IRS — Apply for EIN (free) — https://www.irs.gov/
• Wisconsin DOR — Business Tax Registration — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/Businesses/btr.aspx
• Wisconsin DOR — Tax Rates — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/
• DOR Publication 201 — Sales and Use Tax — https://www.revenue.wi.gov/
• Wisconsin DWD — UI for Employers — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/
• Wisconsin DWD — Worker’s Compensation (Employers) — https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/
• Wisconsin DSPS — Professions — https://dsps.wi.gov/
• Wisconsin DOA — Supplier Diversity — https://doa.wi.gov/Pages/SupplierDiversity/default.aspx
• City of Madison — TBE Program (Civil Rights) — https://www.cityofmadison.com/civil-rights
• UW–Madison SBDC — https://sbdc.wisc.edu/
• WWBIC — https://www.wwbic.com/
• SCORE Madison — https://www.score.org/find-mentor
• Wisconsin Legislature — Alcohol Beverage Licenses (ch. 125) — https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/125

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What to submit and when: sequencing and realistic timelines

Week 0–1:

• Entity filing ($130forLLConline),EIN($0), DOR BTR (see DOR). Sources: DFI, IRS, DOR.

Week 1–3:

• Zoning confirmation for your address; start building/sign permits if needed; PHMDC application if food/lodging.

Week 3–6:

• City Clerk license filings (tobacco, secondhand, vending). For alcohol, publish and schedule hearings.

Week 6–10:

• Inspections (PHMDC, building, fire, Weights & Measures). Occupancy granted when all pass.

Open:

• Keep license copies on site; calendar renewals (DOR BTR renewal schedule; PHMDC and City licenses renew annually; DFI annual reports).

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Madison licensing: Common mistakes to avoid (detailed)

• Incomplete PHMDC plans (missing hand sinks or dishwashing plan).
• Signing a lease without the grease interceptor plan for a kitchen.
• Assuming street vending is “go anywhere.” Madison has mapped areas, hours, seasons, and queue rules.
• Forgetting the City’s Weights & Measures when you add scanners later.
• Not budgeting the alcohol Reserve fee ($10,000) if it applies.
• Missing DFI annual report reminders (late fees add up and can lead to administrative dissolution).

If your business is denied or delayed:

• Ask for a written reason and the exact ordinance or code section. This helps you fix the issue.
• Request a meeting with the reviewing division (zoning, building, PHMDC) to go line by line.
• Consider a phased opening (retail first, then food, then alcohol) to start earning while you complete later steps.
• For appeals (e.g., conditional use or licensing decisions), the City’s pages explain the process. Start at the relevant division’s page (linked above) and ask for the appeal path and deadlines.

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About This Guide

Purpose: Give Madison entrepreneurs a practical, no‑nonsense path to legal operation with verified official sources.
Scope: Focuses on licensing, permits, taxes, and approvals most Madison businesses face. It links to official pages for exact forms, fees, and current rules.
Sources: Every number and rule here is tied to an official government page (City of Madison, PHMDC, Wisconsin DFI/DOR/DWD/DSPS, IRS). Links were verified for availability in August 2025.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and is not legal or tax advice. Laws, fees, and processes change. Always check the official pages linked in this guide and confirm details with the relevant agency before you apply or open. If you have questions about your specific situation, consult a qualified attorney, accountant, or licensing specialist.

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If you want any of the following (kept in Markdown and error‑free), tell me which:

• A downloadable, print‑ready PDF of this cleaned article (I will produce a link‑ready Markdown to PDF instruction).
• A condensed one‑page checklist for a specific business type (retail, restaurant, food truck, short‑term rental, bar).
• Prewritten email text to send to the City Clerk, PHMDC, or DOR asking which exact licenses apply to your proposed business.

Which would you like next?