Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Madison, WI

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

$200 -- $800 2–6 weeks to obtain all registrations 5 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Madison / Dane County Requirements

2 requirements
1

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.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source
2

Dane County Building Permit (for regulated work)

Certain handyman tasks — including electrical, plumbing, HVAC work, or structural modifications — require permits pulled from the Dane County or City of Madison building department. Handymen should not perform licensed contractor work without the appropriate state license.

$50–$500 per project depending on scope1–3 weeks
Official government source

Wisconsin State Requirements

2 requirements
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.

FreeImmediate (online via My Tax Account)
Official government source
2

Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services — Dwelling Contractor Certification

Contractors performing residential construction or improvement work in Wisconsin must hold a Dwelling Contractor Certification from DSPS. This requires a qualifying exam and proof of insurance.

$60 (certification)3–6 weeks
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Track these permits automatically

Get deadline alerts and compliance monitoring for your handyman business in Madison, WI. Never miss a renewal or face a surprise inspection.

Start Tracking Free
Free forever for 1 business No credit card needed 60, 30 & 7-day alerts

Official Sources

Related Guides

Track these permits automatically

Get deadline alerts and compliance monitoring for your handyman business in Madison, WI. Never miss a renewal or face a surprise inspection.

Start Tracking Free
Free forever for 1 business No credit card needed 60, 30 & 7-day alerts