No. Wisconsin prohibits employment of children under 14, aligning with federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) restrictions. Exemptions exist for limited agricultural or entertainment work with strict Department of Workforce Development (DWD) approvals. Violations trigger DWD investigations and potential civil penalties.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Wisconsin
- Age Restriction: Minors under 14 may not work in non-agricultural jobs, per Wis. Stat. § 103.67 and DWD Rule Ch. DWD 272. Exceptions require written authorization from the DWD Secretary.
- Agricultural Work: Limited exceptions apply for family farm operations or seasonal hand-harvesting with parental consent and DWD oversight, but hazardous tasks remain prohibited under 29 CFR 570.71.
- Entertainment Industry: Minors under 14 may work in film, theater, or modeling with a DWD-issued Child Performer Permit, subject to strict hour and schooling requirements under Wis. Admin. Code § DWD 272.12.
The DWD’s 2026 enforcement priorities emphasize digital platform compliance, particularly for gig-economy roles where underage labor risks are prevalent. Employers must verify age documentation via Wisconsin’s Work Permit System (WPS) before onboarding any minor. Failure to comply risks fines up to $1,000 per violation and mandatory corrective training programs.