top of page
Modern Bar Interior

Liquor, Cigarette, Operators License

Image by Jay Piper

Bartender License
(Operator) 

Bartender (Operator’s) License – Town of Sumner

In Wisconsin, anyone who sells or serves alcohol is generally required to hold an Operator’s License, commonly known as a bartender’s license.

Who Needs an Operator’s License?

You need an Operator’s License if you:

  • Bartend or serve alcohol in a bar or restaurant

  • Sell alcohol for on‑premises or off‑premises consumption

  • Supervise alcohol service

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Complete state‑approved Responsible Beverage Server (RBS) training

  • Meet criminal background requirements

  • Apply through the Town of Sumner

Required Training

Applicants must complete a Wisconsin Department of Revenue–approved Responsible Beverage Server (RBS) course, unless exempt due to recent training or prior licensure.

➡️ Approved Training Providers:
Wisconsin Department of Revenue – Alcohol Seller/Server Training

How to Apply

  1. Complete approved RBS training

  2. Submit an Operator’s License application to the Town of Sumner Clerk

  3. Pay the $20 application fee with the application

  4. Receive approval from the Town Board

License Validity

  • Licenses are valid only within the Town of Sumner

  • Issued for no more than one year

  • Expire June 30 of each year

Alcohol Beverage License
(Retail) 

✅ Town of Sumner

Alcohol Beverage License – One‑Page Checklist

Use this checklist when applying for a new license or renewing an existing alcohol beverage license in the Town of Sumner.

🏪 Before You Apply

☐ Determine the correct license type (Beer, Liquor, Wine; on‑ or off‑premises)
☐ Ensure the legal entity name (individual, partnership, LLC, or corporation) is correct
☐ Confirm all sellers/servers will hold a valid Operator’s (Bartender) License

📝 New License Application Checklist

Submit the following to the Town of Sumner Clerk:

☐ Completed Alcohol Beverage License Application
☐ Completed Seller’s Permit Information
☐ Agent appointment form (Required for Corporations & LLCs required)
☐ Background information for applicant, partners, or officers
☐ License fee payment (to be invoiced after board approval)
☐ Any additional documents requested by the Clerk

🔄 License Renewal Checklist

Alcohol beverage licenses expire June 30 each year.

☐ Renewal application submitted before May 22 Renewal fee paid in full
☐ No outstanding compliance issues or violations
☐ Agent and ownership information confirmed or updated
☐ Town Board approval granted

⚠️ Licenses not renewed by June 30 expires and cannot be reinstated

🧾 After Local Approval

☐ Clerk submits required information to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue
☐ License holder receives final documentation
☐ License is posted prominently at the licensed premises

📍 Important Notes

  • Alcohol licenses are not transferable

  • Licenses are valid only at the approved premises

  • Changes in ownership, agent, or location require Clerk notification

  • State law and Town ordinances apply

This checklist is provided for convenience only. Alcohol beverage licensing is governed by Wisconsin law and Town of Sumner ordinances.

bottom of page