If you want to open a business in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you might be unsure about the legal requirements for obtaining a business license. The quick answer is that the majority of Milwaukee businesses need a license to operate. Nevertheless, depending on the kind of business and where it is located, there are several exceptions.
A business license is required, says the City of Milwaukee’s website, for “any person engaging in any activity for the purpose of making a profit.” Both offline and online enterprises fall under this category. For every form of business, there are various criteria.
Any business that is run out of a house is referred to as a home-based business. The Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services must issue you a home occupation permit if you operate a home-based business there. This license guarantees that your company complies with zoning laws and won’t have a detrimental impact on the neighborhood or the community. Depending on the kind of business you’re doing, you could additionally require a business license in addition to the home occupation permit.
You must submit an application for a business license to the city’s License Division if you are operating a brick-and-mortar establishment. Your need for a particular license will depend on the kind of business you run. For instance, in order to operate a restaurant, you must have both a general business license and a license for food dealers. You will require a separate liquor license if you’re running a bar or restaurant.
It’s crucial to remember that certain firms can need additional licences or licenses from state or federal organizations. For instance, the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families will need you to apply for a license if you want to open a daycare facility. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services will issue you a license if you want to start a medical clinic.
In conclusion, if you want to open a business legally in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you probably need a business license. Both home-based enterprises and establishments with physical locations must follow this rule. Nevertheless, there are various criteria based on the kind of business and the area. To avoid any future legal concerns, it’s critical to thoroughly investigate your industry’s standards and secure the necessary permissions and licenses.
Yes, you can operate a business from your home in Wisconsin, but you might need to get zoning approval from your local city or county government or a home occupancy permit. Depending on your home’s location and the type of business you have, certain criteria and limitations apply. It is advised to verify with the local administration to make sure all rules are being followed.