Permits for a Restaurant in Racine, Wisconsin

Authorizes the retail sale of fermented malt beverages (beer) for consumption ON or OFF the premises. 'B is for Bar.' Held by bars, taverns, restaurants, and hotels. Separate from the 'Class B' intoxicating liquor license.

Authorizes the retail sale of intoxicating liquor (spirits, beer, wine) for on-premises consumption. Issued by the municipality with regulatory oversight from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue, Division of Alcohol Beverages. Reserve Class B licenses may require an additional issuance fee of $10,000+.

Required by state law for anyone who serves alcohol in Wisconsin — bartenders, servers, managers, or store clerks. Must complete an approved Responsible Beverage Server training course. Starting 2025, statewide operator permits available online through Department of Revenue, valid in any Wisconsin municipality.

All business entities (LLCs, corporations, partnerships) must register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). In Wisconsin, DFI (not the Secretary of State) handles business entity registration. Annual reports required.

Employers meeting coverage conditions must register for unemployment insurance with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD). Registration completed online.

Wisconsin employers must carry workers' compensation insurance when they employ 3+ employees, or when wages paid to one or more employees total $500+ in any calendar quarter. Insurance obtained through private carriers licensed in Wisconsin.

All commercial establishments in Wisconsin must be inspected by the local fire department as mandated by Wisconsin state statutes. Fire prevention inspections ensure compliance with the safety standards to which buildings were designed and built.

Required for any establishment preparing or serving food in Wisconsin. Licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) or delegated local agent. Fee varies by type of operation and risk level.

Required for installing or modifying business signs in Wisconsin. Administered by local municipal planning/zoning departments. Outdoor advertising along state highways regulated by WisDOT. Regulates sign size, placement, illumination, and type.

Businesses making taxable sales in Wisconsin must register for a Seller's Permit through the Department of Revenue. One-time $20 Business Tax Registration (BTR) fee, renewed every 2 years for $10. State sales tax rate 5% plus county tax of 0.5%.

Verifies that a business location complies with local zoning ordinances. Required before opening a new business or changing use of existing space. Issued by municipal or county zoning authority. Conditional Use Permits may be required for uses like bars, manufacturing, or auto repair.