HVAC Permit Costs in Wisconsin
HVAC and mechanical permit fees in Wisconsin range from $50 to $800. Straightforward equipment replacements cost $50–$200; new installations with ductwork run higher.
A HVAC/Mechanical Permit in Wisconsin costs between $50 and $800, with a state average of $150. Actual fees depend on your municipality, project scope, and valuation.
Factors That Affect Cost
- Type of equipment (furnace, AC, heat pump, boiler)
- Replacement vs. new installation with ductwork
- Residential vs. commercial system
- Whether ductwork modifications are included
- Municipal fee schedule structure
Cost by Municipality
HVAC/Mechanical Permit fees across Wisconsin municipalities. Fees are based on official fee schedules and may vary by project scope.
| Jurisdiction | Fee | vs. State Avg |
|---|---|---|
| City of Milwaukee | Residential equipment replacement $75–$200. New HVAC installation with ductwork $150–$500. Commercial mechanical permits $200–$800. | -50% below avg |
| City of Madison | Residential: $65–$300. Furnace/AC replacement $65–$150. New system with ductwork $150–$300. Ductless mini-split $65–$125. | -57% below avg |
| City of Green Bay | Residential: $50–$250. Furnace replacement $50–$100. AC replacement $50–$100. New installation with ductwork $100–$250. | -67% below avg |
| City of Kenosha | Residential: $60–$250. Equipment replacement $60–$120. New installations with ductwork $120–$250. | -60% below avg |
| City of Racine | Residential: $50–$200. Furnace/AC replacement $50–$100. Includes one inspection. Re-inspection fee $50. | -67% below avg |
| City of Appleton | Residential: $50–$200. Equipment replacements $50–$100. New ductwork $100–$200. Among the more affordable HVAC permit schedules. | -67% below avg |
| City of Waukesha | Residential: $60–$275. Equipment replacement $60–$125. New system with ductwork $125–$275. | -60% below avg |
| City of Oshkosh | Residential: $50–$200. Furnace/AC replacement $50–$85. New system $100–$200. | -67% below avg |
Fee data is sourced from official municipal fee schedules and verified quarterly. Fees shown may represent base rates — actual costs depend on project valuation and scope. Use the Fee Calculator for project-specific estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does replacing a furnace require a permit in Wisconsin?
Yes. Replacing a furnace, boiler, central AC, or heat pump requires a mechanical permit in most Wisconsin municipalities, even for like-for-like replacements. The permit fee typically ranges from $50 to $200 for a straightforward equipment swap. The inspection verifies safe gas connections, proper exhaust venting, and correct electrical hookup.
Do I need a permit for a ductless mini-split system?
Yes. Installing a ductless mini-split system requires both a mechanical/HVAC permit and an electrical permit in most Wisconsin municipalities. The mechanical permit covers the refrigerant lines and units; the electrical permit covers the dedicated circuit. Combined permit costs are typically $100 to $250.
Are HVAC permit fees separate from the equipment installation?
Yes, permit fees are separate from the contractor's installation charges. Most HVAC contractors include the permit fee in their quote, but always confirm. The permit fee covers the application review and inspection. If the installation fails inspection, a re-inspection fee of $40 to $75 may apply.
Need permit costs for every project?
Access real-time fee data across all Wisconsin municipalities. Know the exact cost before you bid, and get notified when fee schedules change.