Milwaukee Business Licensing Attorneys

Lawyers for License Applications for Businesses and Restaurants in Milwaukee

Starting a business or opening a restaurant in Milwaukee requires obtaining the necessary licenses to operate legally. The City of Milwaukee has specific regulations and requirements for different types of businesses, and understanding these licensing procedures can be complex. An attorney with experience in business law, city licensing issues, and other related concerns can help navigate through the application process, address any denials or legal issues, and ensure compliance with all applicable laws. At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, our team has the knowledge and experience needed to address these issues correctly.

Types of Licenses That May Be Required for Businesses and Restaurants

• General business license: This license is required for most businesses operating within the city limits of Milwaukee. It ensures compliance with local zoning ordinances, building codes, health regulations, and other relevant laws.
• Food establishment license: Restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and other food-related businesses must obtain this license from the City Clerk's office. It ensures compliance with sanitation standards set by state and local health departments.
• Liquor license: If alcoholic beverages will be served at an establishment, the proper liquor licenses will be required. There are several categories of liquor licenses available depending on the types of beverages that will be sold or served. Bartenders or other employees may also be required to obtain individual licenses.
• Occupancy permits: A Certificate of Occupancy will be required before a business can officially open its doors and begin serving customers or engaging in other operations. An occupancy inspection will typically be required before a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued.

Licensing Procedures

The licensing process in Milwaukee involves several steps, which can vary depending on the type of license required. Here is an overview of what to expect when applying for a license:

1. Gather information: Our attorneys can help business owners understand the specific licenses that will be required and the requirements that must be met to obtain these licenses. We can also help gather the necessary documentation and meet any prerequisites.
2. Submit applications: The appropriate application forms must be completed properly, providing detailed information about a business, including its location, ownership structure, anticipated operating hours, and other relevant details. These documents must be submitted with the applicable city government departments along with any required supporting documentation, which may include proof of insurance coverage, lease agreements or property ownership documents, floor plans or diagrams, and any required certifications.
3. Publish notice: Some licenses may require publishing a notice in local newspapers informing the public about a business's intention to obtain a license. This step allows interested parties to voice any objections before final approval is granted.
4. Schedule inspections: Depending on the type of license, inspections may be required to ensure compliance with safety and health regulations. These inspections are typically conducted by relevant city departments or agencies.
5. Review and approval: Once an application is submitted, it will undergo a review process by the appropriate city departments. This can take several weeks or even months depending on the complexity of an application and the workloads of the reviewing authorities.
6. Addressing denials or legal concerns: If an application is denied, or if there are legal concerns raised during the review process, our attorney can ensure that these issues will be addressed correctly. We can help navigate appeals, provide guidance on meeting additional requirements, and negotiate agreements with city officials.

Contact Our Milwaukee Restaurant Licensing Lawyers

If you need assistance with obtaining licenses for your business or restaurant in Milwaukee, Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP can provide the legal help and representation you are looking for. Our team of knowledgeable attorneys has extensive experience helping entrepreneurs successfully navigate through the licensing process while also addressing other related issues, such as zoning and land use laws or approvals for real estate development projects. Contact us at 414-271-1440 to arrange a consultation and get more information about how we can address any concerns that may affect your business.