Yes, ticket scalping is legal in Wisconsin, but strictly regulated under state and local laws.
Wisconsin permits the resale of tickets for entertainment events, including sports and concerts, provided sellers comply with statutory disclosure and licensing requirements. Local municipalities, such as Milwaukee and Madison, may impose additional restrictions, including venue-specific rules or caps on resale prices. Violations risk penalties under the Wisconsin Consumer Act or municipal ordinances. As of 2024, no pending 2026 legislation threatens to ban scalping outright, though ongoing debates in the legislature could tighten oversight.
Key Regulations for Scalping Tickets in Wisconsin
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Disclosure Requirements: Wisconsin Statute § 144.50 mandates that ticket resellers disclose the face value of tickets, the total resale price, and any service fees upfront to buyers. Failure to comply constitutes an unfair trade practice under the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).
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Local Venue Restrictions: Cities like Milwaukee enforce ordinances requiring scalpers to obtain a transient merchant license if operating near event venues. Madison’s ordinances prohibit resale within 500 feet of certain venues unless licensed. Violations may result in fines up to $500 per offense.
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Prohibited Acts: Wisconsin law bans the use of bots or automated software to purchase tickets in bulk (Wis. Stat. § 134.98), aligning with federal BOTS Act enforcement. Resale of tickets obtained fraudulently or in violation of venue terms is also prohibited, risking civil liability.