A new Wisconsin law that took effect Jan. 1 is reshaping the regulatory landscape for rural event venues commonly labeled as “wedding barns,” drawing criticism from agricultural venue owners while earning support from traditional banquet halls and the state’s Tavern League.
The legislation, enacted as part of 2023 Act 73, changes how alcohol is regulated at private event venues that previously operated under exemptions from standard liquor licensing. Under the new rules, venues that allow alcohol consumption must either obtain a full liquor license from their municipality or operate under a limited no-sale event venue permit, often referred to as a BYOB alcohol permit.
Rob Geitner, owner of Fernwood Gardens in Jacksonport, a third-generation family farm operated since 1973, says the terminology and scope of the law need to be open for discussion.
“All sorts of venues can fall into the category of 'wedding barn', and many of them have nothing to do with agricultural land.” Geitner said. “We want to change the narrative. We support competition and support certain licenses for actual barns, but not having laws regulating alcohol consumption for them seems unfair."
"Working farms (with a wedding barn) shouldn't be grouped with all other venue spaces like galleries, private propoerty venues with no ag history, etc. " added Geitner. “The legislation brushed with a large swath, and some of these venues can skirt laws,” he said.
For venues that choose the permit route, the impact is substantial. They are limited to six events per year where beer and wine may be consumed, with no more than one event per month. Hard liquor is prohibited, and venues cannot allow guests to bring alcohol without the permit.
Venues seeking greater flexibility must obtain a full liquor license, which allows alcohol service at unlimited events. However, licenses are often subject to municipal quotas, annual fees, and administrative requirements that smaller, seasonal venues say are difficult to meet.
“We’re just looking for an even playing field,” Geitner said. "The current legilation that went into effect this month at least made it fair for commercial businesses like ours, but I'm not opposed to modifying it to assist with actual farms." He added.
As the 2026 wedding season approaches, venue owners, couples, and municipalities alike continue to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape, with debate ongoing over whether the law ensures fairness, or places an uneven burden on some Wisconsin’s businesses.
