Plumbing Permit Costs in Wisconsin
Plumbing permit fees in Wisconsin range from $40 to $1,200, depending on the scope of work. Simple fixture replacements cost $40–$150; new bathroom additions and whole-house plumbing cost significantly more.
A Plumbing Permit in Wisconsin costs between $40 and $1,200, with a state average of $150. Actual fees depend on your municipality, project scope, and valuation.
Factors That Affect Cost
- Number of plumbing fixtures being installed or moved
- Type of work (new installation vs. replacement vs. repair)
- Whether new drain-waste-vent lines are required
- Residential vs. commercial project
- Water heater replacement or installation
Cost by Municipality
Plumbing 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: $65–$500. Water heater replacement $65–$100. Fixture additions $75–$200. New bathroom rough-in $150–$400. Commercial rates higher. | -57% below avg |
| City of Madison | Residential: $55–$400. Per-fixture fees apply: $15–$30 per fixture. Water heater $55–$100. New bathroom $100–$350. | -63% below avg |
| City of Green Bay | Residential: $50–$350. Water heater $50–$80. Per-fixture approach for additions. New bathroom rough-in $100–$300. | -67% below avg |
| City of Kenosha | Residential: $50–$300. Water heater replacement $50–$75. Fixture additions $60–$150. Includes one inspection. | -67% below avg |
| City of Racine | Residential: $45–$300. Water heater $45–$75. New fixtures $60–$150 each. Commercial plumbing calculated separately. | -70% below avg |
| City of Appleton | Residential: $40–$250. Water heater replacement $40–$70. Simple fixture swaps $40–$80. New bathroom $100–$250. | -73% below avg |
| City of Waukesha | Residential: $55–$350. Water heater $55–$85. Per-fixture fees for additions. New bathroom rough-in $120–$300. | -63% below avg |
| City of Oshkosh | Residential: $40–$250. Water heater $40–$65. Among the more affordable plumbing permit schedules in Wisconsin. | -73% 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
Do I need a plumbing permit to replace a toilet in Wisconsin?
Requirements vary by municipality. If you are replacing a toilet in the same location with the same rough-in size, some cities do not require a plumbing permit. However, many Wisconsin municipalities require a permit for any plumbing fixture replacement. If you are moving the toilet to a new location, a plumbing permit is always required. Check with your local building department.
How much does a plumbing permit cost for a water heater?
Water heater replacement plumbing permits in Wisconsin typically cost $40 to $100, depending on the municipality. This is one of the most affordable plumbing permits. The inspection checks the T&P relief valve, discharge pipe, gas connections (if gas unit), and venting. Some cities include re-inspection in the fee; others charge $40–$50 for a failed re-inspection.
Are per-fixture fees common for plumbing permits?
Yes, many Wisconsin municipalities use a per-fixture fee structure for plumbing permits. Fees of $15 to $30 per fixture are common, with a minimum permit fee of $40 to $75. This means a bathroom addition with a toilet, sink, and shower would cost roughly $90 to $165 in per-fixture fees plus the base permit fee.
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.