Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Milwaukee, WI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin.

Updated 2026-03-14 5 stops $300–$1,000 est. 3–8 weeks
Get my personalized route — $14.99

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. Bloodborne Pathogen Training (per artist)

    All tattoo artists must complete an approved bloodborne pathogen training course before working in Wisconsin. Training must be renewed annually.

    Official government source

    $20–$80 per personHalf-day course

City of Milwaukee / Milwaukee County

2 stops

  1. Wisconsin Department of Health Services — Tattoo and Body Art Establishment Permit

    Tattoo establishments in Wisconsin must obtain a permit from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Tattoo artists must complete bloodborne pathogen and infection control training.

    Official government source

    $75–$1502–4 weeks

  2. City of Milwaukee Department of City Development — Business License

    Milwaukee requires a City of Milwaukee Business License for most business types and an Occupancy Permit 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 · 3–8 weeks

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides