Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Madison, WI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Madison, Dane County, Wisconsin.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $300–$1,000 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses
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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 DSPS — Individual Cosmetologist License

    Each cosmetologist must hold a valid Wisconsin Cosmetologist License from DSPS. Requires 1,550 hours of cosmetology training and passing the state board exam.

    Official government source

    $60 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. 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)

City of Madison / Dane County

2 stops

  1. Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services — Cosmetology Salon License

    All cosmetology establishments in Wisconsin must be licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). An initial inspection is required. License is renewed biennially.

    Official government source

    $60 (initial); $60 (biennial renewal)4–8 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. $300–$1,000 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses

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Official Sources

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