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.

Verified 2026-02-01
Typical Fee Range
$50–$1,000
flat
Typical Timeline
1–3 weeks
From application to approval
Inspection Required
Yes
One or more inspections required
Jurisdiction Level
Municipal
Issuing authority level

When Is a Utility Excavation Permit Required?

  • Installing new underground utilities in the right-of-way
  • Repairing or replacing existing underground utility lines
  • Sewer lateral installation or repair
  • Water service line installation or repair

When Is a Utility Excavation Permit NOT Required?

  • Emergency utility repairs (permit obtained retroactively)
  • Work entirely on private property with no right-of-way involvement

Related Permits You May Also Need

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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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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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.
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Utility Excavation Permit Fees by Municipality

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

JurisdictionFeeProcessing TimeStatus
City of Milwaukee$100-$2501-3 weeksCurrent
City of Madison$85-$2001-2 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 — Utility Excavation Permit

Do I need a permit to dig in the street for utility work in Wisconsin?

Yes. Any excavation within the public right-of-way requires a utility excavation permit. You must also call Diggers Hotline (811) at least 3 business days before digging to have existing utilities marked. The municipality will require traffic control during excavation and proper pavement restoration afterward.

What is Diggers Hotline and is it required in Wisconsin?

Diggers Hotline (call 811 or visit DiggersHotline.com) is Wisconsin's one-call utility locating service. Wisconsin law requires anyone excavating to notify Diggers Hotline at least 3 business days before digging. Utilities are then marked with paint or flags at no cost. Failure to call is a violation of Wisconsin Statutes §182.0175 and can result in liability for utility damage.

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