What Permits Do You Need to Remodel a Bathroom in Wisconsin?
Guide to bathroom remodel permits in Wisconsin, covering plumbing, electrical, and building permit requirements for everything from simple updates to full gut renovations.
Yes, you typically need a permit. To remodel a bathroom in most Wisconsin municipalities, you need Remodeling Permit, Plumbing Permit, and Electrical Permit. Here's exactly what's required.
Permits Required
The following permits are typically required to remodel a bathroom in Wisconsin. Actual requirements vary by municipality.
Remodeling Permit
Required for interior structural alterations, major renovations, and remodeling projects in existing buildings. Covers changes to load-bearing walls, basement finishing with egress, bathroom additions, and any work that alters the building's structural integrity under Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code.
Inspection required after work is completed.
Plumbing Permit
Required for all plumbing installations, alterations, and repairs in Wisconsin. The state's plumbing code (SPS 381–387) is among the most detailed in the nation. All plumbing work must be performed by a Wisconsin licensed master or journeyman plumber, with very limited homeowner exemptions.
Inspection required after work is completed.
Electrical Permit
Required for all electrical installations, alterations, and repairs in Wisconsin. The state adopts the National Electrical Code (NEC) with Wisconsin-specific amendments under SPS 316. All electrical work on residential dwellings must be performed by a licensed master or journeyman electrician, or by a homeowner on their own single-family residence.
Inspection required after work is completed.
Where to Apply
Permit requirements, fees, and processing times vary by municipality. Check the specific requirements for your location:
Browse all jurisdictions →Exemptions & Special Cases
In some circumstances, a permit may not be required. Common exemptions include:
- Remodeling Permit: Cosmetic updates: painting, flooring, countertops
- Remodeling Permit: Replacing cabinets or fixtures without moving plumbing
- Plumbing Permit: Replacing a faucet or showerhead
- Plumbing Permit: Clearing a drain clog
- Electrical Permit: Replacing a light switch, outlet, or light fixture in kind
- Electrical Permit: Replacing a plug-in appliance
Exemptions vary by municipality. Always confirm with your local building department before starting work without a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to replace a bathtub or shower in Wisconsin?
If you are doing a like-for-like replacement in the same location without modifying drain lines or supply piping, some municipalities do not require a plumbing permit. However, many Wisconsin cities require a permit for any plumbing fixture replacement. If you are changing the layout, moving drains, or adding new fixtures, a plumbing permit is always required.
Is a permit required to add a bathroom in Wisconsin?
Yes. Adding a new bathroom always requires building, plumbing, and electrical permits in Wisconsin. This involves new drain, vent, and supply plumbing; new electrical circuits for lighting and exhaust fans (required by code in bathrooms without operable windows); and potentially structural work if walls are being added. Expect $300–$700 in total permit fees.
Can I do my own bathroom plumbing in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin homeowners can perform plumbing work on their own owner-occupied single-family home, but you must pull a plumbing permit and pass inspection. The work must meet all code requirements including proper venting, trap sizes, and fixture spacing. Complex drain-waste-vent work is strongly recommended to be done by a licensed plumber to avoid failed inspections.
Building in multiple cities?
See permit requirements for any Wisconsin municipality instantly. Compare fees, timelines, and processes side by side across your active jurisdictions.