Handyman Business Permit Requirements in Madison, WI

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

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $200–$800 est. 2–6 weeks to obtain all registrations
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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 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.

    Official government source

    $60 (certification)3–6 weeks

City of Madison / Dane County

2 stops

  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.

    Official government source

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

  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.

    Official government source

    $50–$500 per project depending on scope1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $200–$800 · 2–6 weeks to obtain all registrations

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Official Sources

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