Wisconsin Contractor Classifications
Indexation gate: passedThe Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) classifies contractor credentials under Wis. Stat. § 101.654 and Wis. Admin. Code SPS Chapter 305. Residential contracting is anchored by the two-tier Dwelling Contractor and Qualifier framework, supplemented by statewide mechanical and electrical trade credentials.
License & Credential Catalog
HVAC Contractor Registration (hvac-contractor)
wi:regulation:sps-305Statewide registration issued by the Wisconsin DSPS authorizing businesses to install or service heating, ventilating, or air conditioning systems. Requires employing a designated HVAC Qualifier.
Notes: Requires designated HVAC Qualifier under Wis. Admin. Code SPS 305.71.
UDC Municipal Building Permit (local-building-permit)
wi:agency:local-udcStatutory building permit required prior to commencing construction, structural alteration, roof replacement, or trade installation on one- and two-family dwellings under the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.
Notes: Statutorily gated by Wis. Stat. § 101.654(1)(a): local inspectors cannot issue permits without verified Dwelling Contractor credentials.
Dwelling Contractor Credential (dwelling-contractor)
wi:statute:wis-stat-101Statewide business entity credential issued by the Wisconsin DSPS authorizing contracting for construction, alteration, or remodeling of one- and two-family dwellings under the Uniform Dwelling Code. Mandatory prerequisite for obtaining municipal building permits.
Notes: Requires minimum $250,000 general liability insurance (or $25,000 bond), workers' compensation compliance, and designating an active Dwelling Contractor Qualifier.
Dwelling Contractor Qualifier (dwelling-qualifier)
wi:regulation:sps-305Individual credential issued by the Wisconsin DSPS held by an owner, partner, or full-time employee qualifying a business holding a Dwelling Contractor credential. Requires passing a 12-hour initial education course and examination.
Notes: Requires 12 hours of approved continuing education every 2-year renewal cycle.
Electrical Contractor Credential (electrical-contractor)
wi:statute:wis-stat-101-elecStatewide credential issued by the Wisconsin DSPS authorizing commercial and residential electrical contracting. Requires employing or designating a licensed Master Electrician.
Notes: Requires designated Master Electrician and compliance with the Wisconsin Electrical Code.
Plumbing Contractor Credential (plumbing-contractor)
wi:statute:wis-stat-145-plumbStatewide credential issued by the Wisconsin DSPS authorizing commercial and residential plumbing contracting. Requires designating an individual holding a licensed Master Plumber credential.
Notes: All plumbing installations must be performed by or under the direct supervision of licensed plumbers.