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.

Verified 2026-02-01
Typical Fee Range
$50–$500
flat
Typical Timeline
1–2 weeks
From application to approval
Inspection Required
Yes
One or more inspections required
Jurisdiction Level
Municipal
Issuing authority level

When Is a Driveway Permit Required?

  • New driveway construction connecting to a public road
  • Widening an existing driveway
  • Replacing a driveway that crosses the public right-of-way
  • Adding a second driveway to a property

When Is a Driveway Permit NOT Required?

  • Resurfacing an existing driveway within your property line
  • Sealing or patching an existing driveway

Related Permits You May Also Need

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.
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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.
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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.
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Driveway Permit Fees by Municipality

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

JurisdictionFeeProcessing TimeStatus
City of Milwaukee$651-2 weeksCurrent
City of Madison$601-2 weeksCurrent
City of Green Bay$505-10 daysCurrent

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 — Driveway Permit

Do I need a permit to pour a new driveway in Wisconsin?

Yes. Any new driveway that connects to a public road or crosses the public right-of-way requires a permit. The permit covers the driveway apron and ensures proper drainage, width, and materials. Replacing your private driveway within your property may not require a permit, but always check with your municipality.

How wide can a residential driveway be in Wisconsin?

Maximum driveway width varies by municipality. Most Wisconsin cities limit residential driveways to 20–24 feet at the curb and 24–30 feet at the property line. Circular driveways and properties with multiple garage bays may be allowed wider approaches. Check your local zoning code for specifics.

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