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.

Verified 2026-02-01
Typical Fee Range
$50–$400
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 Sidewalk/Public Way Permit Required?

  • New sidewalk construction within the public right-of-way
  • Sidewalk repair or replacement (often required by the municipality)
  • Curb and gutter installation or repair
  • Tree terrace or boulevard modifications

When Is a Sidewalk/Public Way Permit NOT Required?

  • Private walkways entirely on your own property
  • Applying salt or clearing snow from public sidewalks

Related Permits You May Also Need

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.
→
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.
→
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.
→

Sidewalk/Public Way Permit Fees by Municipality

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

JurisdictionFeeProcessing TimeStatus
City of Milwaukee$100-$3002-3 weeksCurrent
City of Madison$85-$2502-3 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 — Sidewalk/Public Way Permit

Am I responsible for the sidewalk in front of my house in Wisconsin?

In most Wisconsin municipalities, property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalk adjacent to their property, even though the sidewalk is within the public right-of-way. Many cities require property owners to repair or replace deteriorated sidewalks within a specified time after receiving a notice.

Do I need a permit to repair my sidewalk in Wisconsin?

Yes. Even repairs to existing sidewalks within the public right-of-way require a permit in most Wisconsin municipalities. The city needs to verify that the work meets specifications for concrete thickness, expansion joints, and ADA accessibility.

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