Catering Business Permit Requirements in Madison, WI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a catering business in Madison, Dane County, Wisconsin.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $500–$1,500 est. 4–8 weeks
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Wisconsin

2 stops

  1. Wisconsin Department of Revenue — Seller's Permit

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property, certain services, or digital products in Wisconsin. Wisconsin charges a 5% state sales tax; local county taxes may apply (0.5%). Free to obtain from the Wisconsin DOR.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via My Tax Account)

  2. Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection — Food Manager Certification

    Wisconsin requires at least one certified food manager per food establishment. Must pass an ANSI/ASTM-accredited exam. DATCP oversees food safety licensing.

    Official government source

    $80–$150 (exam and course)1–2 days

City of Madison / Dane County

2 stops

  1. Dane County / Madison Catering / Food Service Establishment License

    Catering businesses operating out of Madison must obtain a Food Service Establishment License from the local health department. This requires a licensed commercial kitchen (commissary) and an on-site inspection.

    Official government source

    $200–$500/year2–6 weeks

  2. City of Madison Department of Planning and Community and Economic Development — Business License

    Madison requires a Business License for regulated business types and a Certificate of Occupancy for any commercial space. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,500 · 4–8 weeks

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Official Sources

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