Public Health Madison & Dane County

Zoning and Taxes

Zoning: Find out if there are zoning conditions that must be met.

• City of Madison: Read the City of Madison Zoning FAQ for Bed & Breakfasts. If required, obtain a Conditional Use approval from the City of Madison.
• Dane County (outside the City of Madison): Contact your municipal or township clerk. 

Sellers Permit*: Obtain a Wisconsin Sellers Permit.

Room Tax: Register with your local clerk if your municipality collects room taxes.

• City of Madison*: Fill out the Room Tax Registration form. Learn when Room Tax Exemptions apply to guests.
• Dane County: (outside the City of Madison): Contact your municipal or township clerk.

  *Exceptions:  Airbnb collects and remits sales tax throughout Wisconsin and room tax within the City of Madison.  If you are renting solely through Airbnb, a Seller's Permit is not needed (write Airbnb only" in this field on the License Application form), and there is no fee for room tax registration in the City of Madison.  Check the box saying "my business is not subject to the Madison Transient Room Tax" on the Room Tax Registration form.  

Apply for a license

Submit a PHMDC lodging license application with proper payment. See the License Fee Schedule and complete the License Application.

Schedule an inspection

Contact us at (608) 242-6515 or email leadmin@publichealthmdc.com to schedule a pre-inspection of your property. License approval must be completed prior to renting out sleeping accommodations.