Bake Sales
“Bake sales" or other food vending for fundraising purposes (for-profit, fundraiser, or donation-only) are not permitted on Madison streets, public sidewalks, terraces, parks, plazas, or on Private Property in Downtown Madison without specific licensing. The Public Right-of-Way is land owned by the City of Madison that is set aside for public travel and access to properties, including streets, sidewalks, terraces, and alleys.
Bake Sales on Public Property
Bake Sales in Downtown Madison
Bakes sales cannot occur on the sidewalks downtown because this would be considered a type of "food vending" and food vending is carefully regulated on State Street, the Capitol Square and surrounding areas (Mall/Concourse Vending Area.)
Only a licensed Mall/Concourse Food Vendor may sell food on the streets/sidewalks downtown, with the proper license, which is intended for permanent vendors operating from approved food carts.
Bake Sale in the Mall/Concourse during the day:
Bake Sale in the Mall/Concourse at night (8PM-2:30AM):
(This includes Frances St. Plaza (aka Concrete Park) between Potbelly and Urban Outfitters)
Bake Sales and Fundraisers on UW Madison Property
Bake Sales in other parts of the City
A bake sale might be possible on public sidewalks or terraces in other parts of the City, with a "Basic" Street Vending license, and by following the guidelines of the health department:
Indoors/Private Property
Indoor bake sales do not require any street vending license. But please see this information about food safety for bake sales held indoors or on private property, from the health department: Guidelines.
City zoning laws (MGO 28) may prohibit or limit the location of an outdoor bake sale held on private property, depending on the zoning district.