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.

Verified 2026-02-01
Typical Fee Range
$200–$1,500
flat
Typical Timeline
2–4 weeks for plan review
From application to approval
Inspection Required
Yes
One or more inspections required
Jurisdiction Level
Municipal
Issuing authority level

When Is a Garage Permit Required?

  • New attached or detached garage construction
  • Converting an existing structure to a garage
  • Expanding an existing garage footprint

When Is a Garage Permit NOT Required?

  • Carports under 200 sq ft in some municipalities
  • Interior garage remodeling without structural changes

Related Permits You May Also Need

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.
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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.
→
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.
→
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.
→

Required Licenses

The following professional licenses may be required to obtain or work under this permit type in Wisconsin.

Garage Permit Fees by Municipality

Fee and processing time data for garage permit permits across Wisconsin municipalities. Click any jurisdiction for complete details including application links and requirements.

JurisdictionFeeProcessing TimeStatus
City of Milwaukee$1002-3 weeksCurrent
City of Madison$852-3 weeksCurrent
City of Green Bay$751-2 weeksCurrent
City of Kenosha$801-2 weeksCurrent

Data note: Fees are sourced from official municipal fee schedules and verified periodically. Actual fees may vary based on project valuation and scope. Click any jurisdiction for the most current data and direct application links.

Frequently Asked Questions — Garage Permit

Do I need a permit to build a garage in Wisconsin?

Yes. Both attached and detached garages require a building permit in Wisconsin. The permit application typically requires a site plan, foundation plan, and structural drawings. Attached garages must include fire-rated separation (typically 1/2-inch drywall on the garage side) between the garage and living space.

How close to the property line can I build a garage?

Setback requirements depend on your zoning district and municipality. Most Wisconsin cities require detached garages to be at least 3–5 feet from side and rear property lines. Attached garages must comply with the main structure's setbacks, which are typically larger.

What are the fire separation requirements for attached garages in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin's UDC requires fire-rated separation between an attached garage and the living space. This typically means 1/2-inch drywall on the garage side of shared walls and ceilings, a self-closing door rated for 20 minutes, and no openings into sleeping rooms directly from the garage.

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