New Wisconsin Department of Revenue Fact Sheets on Alcohol Beverage Laws

Jared Walker Smith | 11.20.18

Broadly speaking, the regulation of alcohol beverage sales and production in Wisconsin is shared by local governments and the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR). Under authority granted by state law, local municipalities issue most retail sale licenses, operator licenses, and certain special event licenses, like wine walks, independent of the DOR. The DOR issues permits, including for wholesalers, shippers, producers, and certain special retailers. Among other regulatory, enforcement, and taxation responsibilities, the DOR issues guidance on state laws in the form of publications and opinions.

The DOR recently published ten new fact sheets providing information on portions of Wisconsin’s alcohol beverage laws and regulations. These fact sheets supplement DOR Publication 302 (Wisconsin Alcohol Beverage and Tobacco Laws for Retailers) and Publication 309 (Retail Alcohol Beverage Licensing Information).

The fact sheets cover the following topics: 

• Licenses for Retail Sale of Alcohol Beverages
• Alcohol Beverage Permits
• Licensed or Permitted Premises Description
• Operators’ Licenses
• Alcohol Beverage Carry-Ins
• Alcohol Beverage Sampling
• Alcohol Beverage Service and Sales at Unlicensed Retail Establishments, Including Salons, Spas, and Barbershops
• Catering Alcohol Beverages
• Wine or Beer Walks
• Selling, Donating, and Giving Away Alcohol Beverages

The fact sheets provide helpful guidance on Wisconsin’s alcohol beverage laws, but cannot cover all areas of and issues arising under the laws. Importantly, the fact sheets do not provide specifics on local ordinances and rules that vary widely between communities and may also impact DOR permitted operations. When looking to sell, serve, produce, or distribute alcohol beverages in Wisconsin, be sure to consult with an attorney and fully discuss the specifics of your situation. 

• Restaurant/Hospitality