Temporary Event Food Licensing & Sanitation

Event Licensing

Temporary Event Food License Applications are processed by the License Division of the City Clerk's office.

• There is a revision to Chapter 60 of the Milwaukee Code of Ordinances that went into effect March 16, 2012 that affects temporary food vendors.  Filing deadlines have been established by the City Clerk. If an application is made after the filing deadline, then there is a fee of $75 for the late filing of the application. An additional $75 late fee will be assessed if the license fee is not paid within 10 days of filing.  Also, no applications may be made at an event or accepted after the event. More information can be found in the City Clerk's Temporary Food License Application and Instructions.
• Establishments that wish to extend operations to the outside on a temporary basis should use the Food Dealer Request for Temporary Extension of Premises Application.

Important requirements for operating a food service at a temporary event

• Food operations considered high risk will not be allowed to operate until inspected and the license issued.
• To prevent short-term closure of a food service, operators should make sure that safe food handling practices are implemented and followed. 
• Food vendors should download our Guidelines for Temporary Food Stands 
• Event Coordinators can download  Information for Temporary Food Coordinators

Questions regarding festival food service should be directed to Health Department Consumer Environmental Health Staff at 414-286-3674, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Events in Milwaukee

The Milwaukee Department of Public Works has an online calendar of events in Milwaukee.