Wisconsin Permits & Licenses
All permit categories tracked across Wisconsin municipalities. Typical fee ranges and timelines are statewide averages — click any permit type for jurisdiction-specific data.
Building & Construction
Permits for new construction, additions, structural alterations, demolition, and major renovation projects.
| Permit Type | Description | Typical Fee | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Building Permit | Required for new single-family homes, duplexes, and multi-family dwellings in Wisconsin. The state enforces the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) statewide through DSPS, but municipalities issue permits and conduct inspections locally. Plans must comply with SPS 320–325 for structural, energy, and safety requirements. | $800–$5,500 | 2–6 weeks for plan review; 6–12 months total build |
| Commercial Building Permit | Required for new commercial, industrial, and institutional building construction in Wisconsin. Commercial buildings are regulated under the Commercial Building Code (SPS 361–366), with plan review conducted by DSPS or certified municipal inspectors. Projects must also comply with local zoning, fire codes, and ADA accessibility standards. | $2,000–$25,000 | 4–12 weeks for plan review; 8–24 months total build |
| Building Addition Permit | Required for any construction that expands the footprint or volume of an existing residential or commercial building in Wisconsin. Additions must comply with the UDC for residential structures or SPS 361–366 for commercial buildings, including setback requirements, structural tie-ins, and energy code compliance for the new section. | $300–$3,500 | 2–5 weeks for plan review |
| 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. | $150–$2,500 | 1–4 weeks for plan review |
| Accessory Structure Permit | Required for detached structures such as sheds, workshops, barns, and outbuildings on residential or commercial property. Wisconsin municipalities set size thresholds — structures under 200 sq ft are often exempt, but thresholds vary. Larger accessory structures must comply with setback, height, and lot coverage requirements. | $75–$800 | 1–3 weeks for plan review |
| Deck Permit | Required for constructing new decks, porches, and exterior elevated platforms in Wisconsin. The state regulates decks under the Uniform Dwelling Code with specific requirements for footings below the frost line (48 inches in most of Wisconsin), ledger board attachment, railing height, and structural connections per SPS 320–325. | $75–$600 | 1–3 weeks for plan review |
| Garage Permit | Required for constructing new attached or detached garages in Wisconsin. Garages must comply with the UDC for residential properties, including fire separation requirements between attached garages and living spaces, concrete floor requirements, and proper ventilation. Detached garages must meet setback and lot coverage requirements. | $200–$1,500 | 2–4 weeks for plan review |
| Roofing Permit | Required for roof replacement, re-roofing, and structural roof repairs on residential and commercial buildings in Wisconsin. The Uniform Dwelling Code limits residential re-roofing to two layers of asphalt shingles; a third layer requires a complete tear-off. Commercial roofing follows SPS 361–366. | $75–$500 | 1–5 business days |
| Siding Permit | Required in many Wisconsin municipalities for residing a home or replacing exterior cladding. Requirements vary significantly — some cities require a permit for any siding work, while others only require it when changing material type or modifying the weather barrier. Always confirm with your local building department. | $50–$300 | 1–3 business days |
| Fence Permit | Required in most Wisconsin municipalities for installing new fences above a certain height. Requirements vary — some cities require permits for all fences, others only for fences above 6 feet. Setback requirements, material restrictions, and height limits differ by zoning district and municipality. | $25–$200 | 1–5 business days |
| Driveway Permit | Required for new driveway construction, widening, or replacement that connects to a public street or right-of-way in Wisconsin. Covers the driveway apron (the portion within the public right-of-way) and may include requirements for stormwater management, width limits, and material specifications set by the municipality. | $50–$500 | 1–2 weeks |
| Sidewalk/Public Way Permit | Required for any construction, repair, or modification within the public right-of-way, including sidewalks, curbs, and terraces. Wisconsin municipalities regulate work within the right-of-way to protect public infrastructure, underground utilities, and pedestrian safety. Property owners are often responsible for adjacent sidewalk maintenance. | $50–$400 | 1–2 weeks |
| Swimming Pool Permit | Required for installing in-ground and above-ground swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas in Wisconsin. Wisconsin regulates residential pools under SPS 390 and requires barrier fencing, proper drainage, and electrical safety measures. Public and semi-public pools fall under SPS 390 with additional requirements for filtration, sanitation, and lifeguard provisions. | $100–$1,000 | 2–4 weeks |
| Retaining Wall Permit | Required for retaining walls above a certain height in Wisconsin, typically 4 feet. Engineered retaining walls require stamped plans from a licensed engineer. Retaining walls affect grading, drainage, and structural loading on adjacent properties, making permits essential for public safety and neighbor relations. | $75–$600 | 1–3 weeks |
| Grading/Excavation Permit | Required for earth-moving activities including grading, filling, excavation, and land clearing in Wisconsin. Municipalities regulate grading to manage stormwater runoff, prevent erosion, protect neighboring properties, and ensure proper drainage. Projects disturbing more than one acre also require a Wisconsin DNR stormwater permit (WPDES). | $100–$1,500 | 1–4 weeks |
| Demolition Permit | Required before demolishing any building or structure in Wisconsin. Municipalities require demolition permits to manage asbestos abatement, utility disconnection, stormwater runoff, and debris disposal. Structures in historic districts may require additional review under local preservation ordinances or the Wisconsin Historical Society. | $100–$1,500 | 1–4 weeks |
| Razing Permit | A specialized permit used in some Wisconsin municipalities (notably Milwaukee) as the formal authorization for complete building removal. The razing permit process may include additional requirements beyond a standard demolition permit, such as a site restoration plan, escrow deposit, and a timeline for completion. In Wisconsin, 'razing' specifically refers to the complete removal of a building down to the foundation. | $200–$2,000 | 2–6 weeks |
| County Access/Driveway Permit | Required for constructing a new driveway or access point that connects to a county highway in Wisconsin. The county highway department reviews applications to ensure safe sight distances, proper drainage, and compliance with county access standards. This is separate from municipal driveway permits, which cover connections to city streets. | $50–$400 | 1–4 weeks |
Trade-Specific
Permits for licensed trade work including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire protection, and mechanical systems.
| Permit Type | Description | Typical Fee | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | $50–$1,500 | 1–5 business days for permit issuance |
| Low-Voltage Electrical Permit | Required in some Wisconsin municipalities for low-voltage wiring installations including structured cabling, security systems, fire alarm wiring, audio/video systems, and network cabling. Requirements vary — some municipalities include low-voltage work under the standard electrical permit, while others require a separate permit or exempt it entirely. | $25–$300 | 1–3 business days |
| 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. | $50–$1,200 | 1–5 business days for permit issuance |
| Water Heater Permit | Required for water heater installation or replacement in Wisconsin. Even replacing an existing unit in the same location typically requires a permit. Wisconsin requires a licensed plumber for water heater installation under SPS 381–387, with proper venting, gas connections, temperature/pressure relief valve discharge, and seismic strapping where applicable. | $40–$200 | Same day to 2 business days |
| HVAC/Mechanical Permit | Required for installing, replacing, or significantly modifying heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in Wisconsin. Covers furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, heat pumps, ductwork, and ventilation systems. Residential HVAC falls under the UDC; commercial systems under SPS 363–364. Wisconsin requires HVAC credentials through DSPS for most installations. | $50–$1,000 | 1–5 business days for permit issuance |
| HVAC Replacement Permit | A streamlined permit for like-for-like HVAC equipment replacement in Wisconsin. Many municipalities offer a simplified application process when replacing existing furnaces, boilers, or AC condensers with similar equipment in the same location. Still requires inspection to verify proper installation, venting, and safety compliance. | $40–$200 | Same day to 2 business days |
Environmental & Land Use
Permits for environmental compliance, stormwater management, erosion control, and land disturbance.
| Permit Type | Description | Typical Fee | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stormwater Management Permit | Required for development projects that create or increase impervious surfaces or alter stormwater drainage patterns in Wisconsin. Municipalities enforce stormwater management requirements under NR 151 and NR 216 (administered by Wisconsin DNR). Projects disturbing one or more acres also need a separate state WPDES construction stormwater permit from the DNR. | $100–$2,000 | 2–6 weeks for plan review |
| Erosion Control Permit | Required for construction activities that disturb soil and could cause erosion or sediment runoff in Wisconsin. Municipalities enforce erosion control under their local ordinances, which must meet or exceed the state standards in NR 216. Erosion control measures (silt fencing, sediment basins, stabilized construction entrances) must be in place before land disturbance begins. | $50–$500 | 1–3 weeks |
| Tree Cutting/Removal Permit | Required in many Wisconsin municipalities for removing trees above a certain diameter, especially on public property or within protected areas. Some cities have urban forestry ordinances that protect certain species or sizes of trees on private property. Trees in the public right-of-way (terrace/boulevard) are typically managed by the municipal forestry department and always require approval for removal. | $0–$200 | 1–4 weeks |
| Well Permit | Required for constructing, reconstructing, or abandoning private water wells in Wisconsin. Wisconsin DNR regulates private wells under NR 812 and requires all well construction to be performed by a licensed well driller. County agencies typically administer well permits and coordinate inspections. Well location must meet minimum setback distances from septic systems, property lines, and potential contamination sources. | $50–$300 | 1–3 weeks |
| Septic System Permit (POWTS) | Required for installing, replacing, or modifying private onsite wastewater treatment systems (POWTS) in Wisconsin. Regulated under SPS 383 (formerly Comm 83) and administered at the county level. All POWTS installations require a licensed master plumber, a soil evaluation, and a state-certified inspector. Wisconsin transitioned from the older 'septic system' terminology to 'POWTS' (Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System). | $200–$800 | 2–6 weeks |
| County Shoreland Zoning Permit | Required for development activities within shoreland areas (typically 1,000 feet of a lake or 300 feet of a river or stream) in unincorporated areas of Wisconsin. Shoreland zoning is mandated by Wisconsin DNR under NR 115 and enforced by counties. Regulations restrict impervious surfaces, vegetation removal, building setbacks from the water, and lot coverage to protect water quality and habitat. | $75–$500 | 2–6 weeks |
| County Floodplain Development Permit | Required for any development within a mapped floodplain in Wisconsin. Counties (and municipalities) enforce floodplain zoning under NR 116 to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Floodplain regulations restrict fill, construction, and development within the floodway and flood fringe to reduce flood damage and maintain flood storage capacity. | $75–$500 | 2–6 weeks |
| County Sanitary Permit | Required by some Wisconsin counties as a prerequisite for building permits on properties with private sewage systems (POWTS). The county sanitary permit verifies that the property has an adequate and code-compliant private sewage system to handle the proposed use. This may overlap with or be combined with the POWTS/septic system permit in some counties. | $50–$300 | 1–4 weeks |
| County Nonmetallic Mining Permit | Required for nonmetallic mining operations (sand, gravel, crushed stone, topsoil, clay) in Wisconsin. Counties regulate nonmetallic mining under their zoning ordinances and NR 135 reclamation requirements. Mining operators must obtain both a conditional use permit (or mining-specific zoning approval) and register with the county for reclamation compliance. | $200–$3,000 | 8–16 weeks (includes public hearing) |
| County Onsite Wastewater Permit | A general county permit for onsite wastewater systems beyond standard POWTS in Wisconsin, covering holding tanks, community systems, and non-standard wastewater treatment. Some counties use this permit category for properties where conventional POWTS is not feasible and alternative wastewater solutions are needed. Regulated under SPS 383 with county administration. | $150–$800 | 2–8 weeks |
| County Wetland Permit | Required for activities that impact wetlands in unincorporated areas of Wisconsin. Counties enforce wetland zoning under NR 115 (shoreland wetlands) while the Wisconsin DNR and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulate wetland fill and disturbance under state and federal law. A wetland delineation may be required to determine the boundaries of regulated wetlands on your property. | $100–$800 | 4–12 weeks |
| County Manure Storage Permit | Required for constructing, modifying, or abandoning manure storage facilities in Wisconsin. Regulated under NR 154 and ATCP 50, with county administration. Manure storage facilities must meet minimum design standards for structural integrity, leak prevention, setbacks from wells and waterways, and capacity requirements based on herd size. Both livestock and poultry operations are covered. | $100–$1,000 | 4–8 weeks |
Zoning & Land Development
Permits for zoning variances, conditional use, sign placement, and land development approvals.
| Permit Type | Description | Typical Fee | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occupancy Permit | Required before occupying a newly constructed or substantially renovated building in Wisconsin. Also known as a Certificate of Occupancy (CO), this permit confirms that the building has passed all required inspections and complies with the applicable building codes, zoning ordinances, and fire safety requirements. A temporary occupancy permit may be issued while minor punch-list items are completed. | $25–$300 | 1–2 weeks after final inspection |
| Zoning Variance | A formal request to deviate from specific zoning requirements such as setbacks, height limits, lot coverage, or parking requirements in Wisconsin. Variances are granted by the local Board of Appeals (or Board of Zoning Appeals) and require the applicant to demonstrate an unnecessary hardship under Wisconsin Statutes §62.23(7)(e)(7). Area variances (dimensional) are more commonly granted than use variances. | $200–$1,500 | 4–12 weeks (includes public hearing) |
| Conditional Use Permit | Authorizes a land use that is allowed in a zoning district only with conditions set by the Plan Commission or Zoning Board. In Wisconsin, conditional uses are listed in the zoning ordinance and require a public hearing per §62.23(7)(de). Common conditional uses include churches, daycares, multi-family housing, and commercial uses in mixed zones. Conditions may address hours, parking, screening, and intensity. | $200–$2,000 | 4–12 weeks (includes public hearing) |
| Special Use Permit | Similar to a conditional use permit, a special use permit authorizes a land use that requires additional review beyond standard permitted uses. Some Wisconsin municipalities use 'special use permit' and 'conditional use permit' interchangeably, while others distinguish between them based on the level of review required. The process typically involves a public hearing before the Plan Commission or Board of Appeals. | $200–$1,500 | 4–10 weeks (includes public hearing) |
| Zoning Compliance Letter | A written statement from the municipal zoning department confirming that a property's current or proposed use complies with the local zoning ordinance. Often required by lenders, title companies, and buyers during real estate transactions in Wisconsin. Also known as a zoning verification letter or zoning certificate. | $25–$200 | 3–10 business days |
| Home Occupation Permit | Required for operating a business from a residential property in Wisconsin. Most municipalities allow home occupations under certain conditions — typically limiting the percentage of the home used for business, restricting signage, prohibiting employees and walk-in customers, and requiring that the residential character of the property is maintained. Some home occupations are permitted by right; others require a conditional use permit. | $25–$200 | 1–4 weeks |
| County Zoning Permit | Required for construction and land use activities in unincorporated areas of Wisconsin counties. County zoning ordinances regulate land use outside of city and village limits under Wisconsin Statutes §59.69. The county zoning department reviews permit applications for compliance with the county's zoning code, including setbacks, lot coverage, and use restrictions. | $50–$500 | 1–4 weeks |
| County Land Division Approval | Required for dividing land (subdivision or certified survey map) in Wisconsin counties. Land divisions are regulated under Wisconsin Statutes §236 and county subdivision ordinances. Any division of land into parcels creates requirements for surveying, mapping, recording, and compliance with minimum lot sizes, road frontage, and access standards. | $200–$2,000 | 4–12 weeks |
Specialty & Business
Business licenses, food service permits, liquor licenses, and other specialty permits required for operations.
| Permit Type | Description | Typical Fee | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent Sign Permit | Required for installing, replacing, or modifying permanent signs in Wisconsin, including wall signs, monument signs, pole signs, projecting signs, and awning signs. Wisconsin municipalities regulate signs through their zoning ordinances, controlling size, height, illumination, placement, and materials. Sign regulations vary dramatically between municipalities and zoning districts. | $50–$500 | 1–3 weeks |
| Temporary Sign Permit | Required for temporary signs including banners, A-frame/sandwich board signs, promotional signs, and event signage in Wisconsin. Temporary sign permits have time limits — typically 30 to 90 days — and may limit the number of temporary sign permits per business per year. Regulations vary by municipality. | $15–$100 | 1–5 business days |
| Fire Alarm System Permit | Required for installing, modifying, or replacing fire alarm systems in commercial and multi-family residential buildings in Wisconsin. Fire alarm systems must comply with NFPA 72 and Wisconsin's fire prevention code. Systems must be designed by qualified professionals, installed by certified technicians, and inspected by the local fire department or state-certified inspector before activation. | $75–$500 | 1–3 weeks |
| Fire Sprinkler System Permit | Required for installing or modifying automatic fire sprinkler systems in Wisconsin. Commercial buildings, multi-family residential buildings, and certain other occupancies require sprinkler systems under the Wisconsin fire code and SPS 361–366. Systems must be designed per NFPA 13, 13R, or 13D depending on the building type and installed by licensed fire protection contractors. | $100–$1,500 | 2–4 weeks for plan review |
| Fire Suppression System Permit | Required for installing specialized fire suppression systems beyond standard sprinklers in Wisconsin, including commercial kitchen hood suppression systems, clean agent systems, dry chemical systems, and foam systems. Commercial kitchens with grease-producing cooking equipment must have a UL 300-listed hood suppression system per NFPA 96 and the Wisconsin fire code. | $75–$800 | 1–3 weeks |
| Elevator Permit | Required for installing, modifying, or operating elevators, escalators, and other conveyance systems in Wisconsin. DSPS regulates conveyance systems under SPS 318 and requires annual inspections and operating permits. All elevator installations must be performed by licensed elevator contractors and inspected by DSPS-authorized inspectors. | $200–$2,000 | 4–8 weeks for plan review and installation permit |
| General Business License | Required for operating most types of businesses within a Wisconsin municipality. The general business license (sometimes called a business registration or business tax certificate) ensures that the business complies with local zoning, building, fire, and health codes. Requirements and fees vary by municipality — not all Wisconsin cities require a general business license. | $25–$300 | 1–3 weeks |
| Food Dealer License | Required for any establishment that prepares, serves, or sells food to the public in Wisconsin. Regulated under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 97 and DATCP (Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection) rules. Restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries, caterers, and food manufacturers all need a food dealer license. Municipal health departments conduct inspections; state licensing is through DATCP. | $100–$600 | 2–6 weeks (includes health inspection) |
| Food Truck Permit | Required for operating a mobile food vending unit in Wisconsin municipalities. Food trucks must comply with both state food safety regulations (DATCP) and local municipal ordinances that govern where, when, and how food trucks can operate. Requirements vary significantly between municipalities — some are food truck-friendly, while others impose heavy restrictions. | $100–$1,000 | 2–6 weeks |
| On-Premise Liquor License (Class B) | Required for selling alcohol for consumption on the premises in Wisconsin (bars, restaurants, taverns). Wisconsin issues liquor licenses at the municipal level under Chapter 125 of the Wisconsin Statutes. Each municipality has a limited number of licenses (quota system) based on population. Class B licenses authorize the sale of intoxicating liquor by the drink; a separate Class B beer license is often also needed. | $500–$2,500 | 4–12 weeks (includes background check and public hearing) |
| Off-Premise Liquor License (Class A) | Required for retail sale of alcohol for off-premise consumption in Wisconsin (liquor stores, grocery stores, convenience stores). Class A licenses authorize the sale of intoxicating liquor in original sealed packages. Like on-premise licenses, Class A licenses are issued at the municipal level under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 125 and are subject to population-based quotas. | $500–$1,500 | 4–12 weeks (includes background check and public hearing) |
| Temporary Alcohol Permit | Allows the temporary sale of alcohol at specific events in Wisconsin, such as festivals, fundraisers, and community events. Wisconsin issues temporary Class B licenses (commonly called 'picnic licenses') for up to 14 consecutive days. These are typically issued to nonprofit organizations, clubs, and societies, though some municipalities also issue them to for-profit entities for specific events. | $10–$100 | 1–4 weeks |
| Sidewalk Cafe Permit | Required for operating an outdoor dining area on a public sidewalk or right-of-way in Wisconsin. The permit authorizes the placement of tables, chairs, barriers, and other dining furniture within a designated area of the public sidewalk. Requirements typically address minimum pedestrian clearance, furniture placement, ADA accessibility, hours of operation, and insurance. | $50–$500 | 2–4 weeks |
| Vending Machine Permit | Required in some Wisconsin municipalities for placing and operating vending machines on commercial property or in public areas. Regulations vary — some cities require registration or licensing of vending machines, while others regulate them only through the general business license. Vending machines selling food must comply with DATCP food safety requirements. | $25–$150 | 1–2 weeks |
| Amusement License | Required in many Wisconsin municipalities for operating amusement devices, game rooms, pool halls, bowling alleys, and entertainment venues. Some municipalities also require amusement licenses for jukebox machines, pinball machines, dart boards, and video game machines in bars and restaurants. Regulations and fees vary by municipality. | $25–$500 | 1–3 weeks |
| Short-Term Rental Permit | Required for renting a dwelling or portion of a dwelling for periods shorter than 29 consecutive days in Wisconsin. Wisconsin regulates short-term rentals (vacation rentals, Airbnb, VRBO) under ATCP 72. DATCP licenses tourist rooming houses statewide, and many municipalities have added their own permitting requirements, occupancy limits, and zoning restrictions in response to the growth of short-term rental platforms. | $50–$500 | 2–6 weeks (includes inspections) |
| Contractor Registration | Required in many Wisconsin municipalities for contractors performing work within city limits. Separate from the statewide Dwelling Contractor Qualifier (DCQ) credential issued by DSPS, municipal contractor registration typically requires proof of insurance, bonding, and state credentials. Some cities maintain a registered contractor list and prohibit unregistered contractors from pulling permits. | $25–$300 | 1–2 weeks |
| Right-of-Way Occupancy Permit | Required for temporarily or permanently occupying, obstructing, or placing objects within the public right-of-way in Wisconsin. Covers dumpster placement, construction staging, scaffolding, temporary lane closures, and any activity that affects the public right-of-way. The permit ensures public safety, accessibility, and traffic management during the occupation. | $25–$500 | 3–10 business days |
| Utility Excavation Permit | Required for excavating within the public right-of-way to install, repair, or replace underground utilities in Wisconsin. Covers water, sewer, gas, electric, telecommunications, and other underground infrastructure. The permit ensures proper traffic control, Diggers Hotline notification, trench safety, and pavement restoration after the work is completed. | $50–$1,000 | 1–3 weeks |
Professional Licenses
Many permit types require the contractor or applicant to hold a valid professional license issued by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). View requirements, fees, and renewal information for all tracked license types.
Browse Professional Licenses →Data note: Fee ranges and timelines shown above are statewide averages compiled from official municipal fee schedules across 190+ Wisconsin jurisdictions. Actual fees vary significantly by municipality and project scope. Click any permit type for jurisdiction-specific data, or use the Fee Calculator for estimates, or browse all jurisdictions for exact local data.
For Professionals
Managing permits across multiple jurisdictions?
Get fee changes, requirement updates, and deadline alerts for every municipality you work in. Built for contractors, expeditors, and compliance teams.
No credit card required. Free for up to 3 locations.