Permit Finder
Enter your project type and location. Get a checklist of every permit required, estimated costs, and where to apply.
What you'll need
- Your project municipality (city or village in Wisconsin)
- Project type (new construction, renovation, addition, etc.)
- Estimated project valuation (for fee calculation)
4 permits required · Estimated total: $780.00 · Total processing: 3–4 weeks (parallel applications)
| Permit | Issuing Authority | Est. Fee | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building Permit | City of Madison — Building Inspection Division | $485.00 | 3–4 weeks |
| Electrical Permit | City of Madison — Building Inspection Division | $125.00 | 1–2 weeks |
| Plumbing Permit | Wisconsin DSPS — Plumbing Division | $95.00 | 2–3 weeks |
| HVAC/Mechanical Permit | City of Madison — Building Inspection Division | $75.00 | 1–2 weeks |
Note: Fees are based on the City of Madison fee schedule effective January 2026. Actual fees may vary based on project valuation and scope. Always confirm fees directly with the issuing authority before submitting applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free tool to find what permits I need in Wisconsin?
Yes. The Permit Finder tool lets you enter your project type and Wisconsin municipality to get a complete checklist of required permits, estimated fees, and links to the issuing authority. No account or payment required.
How do I know which permits I need for a construction project?
The permits required depend on your project type (new construction, renovation, addition, demolition) and your municipality. Use the Permit Finder to get a jurisdiction-specific checklist based on your project details.
How accurate are the permit fees shown in the Permit Finder?
Fee data is sourced from official municipal and state government websites and verified quarterly. Actual fees may vary based on project valuation and scope. Last data verification: February 2026.
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