Start a Business in Madison

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 Varies by type

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Overview

Starting a business in Madison requires a Business License through the City Clerk's Office. Base fee: Varies by type. No general state business license.

Required Permits

✓Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

✓State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

✓County: health department permit + fire inspection

✓City: business licence/tax certificate

Step-by-Step Process

Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

County: health department permit + fire inspection

City: business licence/tax certificate

Costs

Estimated total: Varies by type depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

City Clerk's Office

Phone: 608-266-4601

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ State capital — government/university city

⚠ Dane County health department for food permits

⚠ Isthmus location creates unique zoning challenges

⚠ Strong local food/farm-to-table scene — specific vendor permits

⚠ Wisconsin requires Seller Permit registration before making any retail sales

Choose Your Business Type

Restaurant Food Truck Barber Shop Retail Store Coffee Shop Bar / Nightclub Gym / Fitness Studio Nail Salon Cannabis Dispensary Dog Grooming Bakery Cleaning Service Daycare Center Auto Repair Shop

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Everything in the right order with links, fees, and timelines.

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Read our complete Madison business license guide →