Landscaping Business Permit Requirements in Madison, WI

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

$200 -- $700 2–6 weeks to obtain all licenses 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 / Madison Contractor Registration

Landscaping contractors may need to register with Dane County or the City of Madison. Some jurisdictions require a separate contractor's registration for landscaping and irrigation work.

$50–$2001–3 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 Pesticide Applicator License

If you apply pesticides or herbicides as part of landscaping services in Wisconsin, you must hold a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License from the state department of agriculture.

$50–$200 (exam and license)2–4 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

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