Building permits, zoning and land rules in Clark County, Wisconsin
75Index Score / 100 #14 of 72 in Wisconsin
New one- and two-family homes in Clark County, Wisconsin need a Uniform Dwelling Code building permit, issued by the municipality where it has delegated authority or otherwise through Wisconsin DSPS, not by the county1. County zoning covers regulated shoreland and floodplain land only; towns set other zoning, and Neillsville runs its own234. Septic permits everywhere in the county come from Clark County Planning, Zoning & Land Information5.
At a glance
New-home building permit
Required for new one- and two-family dwellings (UDC permit, not issued by the county)1
Building code
Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code applies to covered homes67
General zoning
County zoning only in shoreland and floodplain areas; otherwise town by town23
Septic permits
Clark County administers sanitary permits and field inspections countywide58
Minimum lot size
One acre under county land-development rules, with exceptions9
Owner-builder
An owner-occupant may apply without contractor certification; permits still required10
Occupancy approval
County certificate of compliance where county zoning applies11
County-highway driveway
County right-of-way work requires a Highway Department permit12
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Do you need a building permit in Clark County, Wisconsin?
Yes, for a new home. A new one- or two-family dwelling in Clark County requires a Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code permit, including a stick-built, modular or manufactured-home installation1. The application needs plans, required data, contractor license information and a fee; apply to the municipality if it has delegated authority, otherwise to Wisconsin DSPS1. The statewide code applies to dwellings built since June 1, 1980 and is enforced in every Wisconsin municipality6. An owner who will occupy the completed home may apply without Dwelling Contractor Certification, but the permit is still required10. County land-use and sanitary approvals are separate from the UDC permit1314.
Who issues building permits in Clark County, and who handles zoning and septic?
The county does not issue the Uniform Dwelling Code permit; a municipality with delegated authority or Wisconsin DSPS does, and either one assigns the inspector15. Inside Neillsville, the city issues its own building permits and runs its own zoning164. The county's rules below apply to unincorporated Clark County. For county land-management permits, compliance inspections and records, start with Clark County Planning, Zoning & Land Information at 517 Court St, Room 204 in Neillsville17. Septic stays with the county for every address, city or not5. New-home UDC inspections cover footings, foundation and reinforcement, rough work, insulation and the final inspection; notify the inspector named on the UDC permit when each stage is ready18. Where county zoning applies, the zoning administrator issues a certificate of compliance, within ten days of completion if the work conforms, and the building cannot be occupied without it11.
Does Clark County, Wisconsin have zoning?
Only partly. Clark County zoning applies to land within 300 feet of navigable streams and rivers, within 1,000 feet of navigable lakes, ponds and flowages, or to the landward side of the floodplain, whichever is greater; the county's sources do not show a general zoning-district ordinance for other private land19. Outside those areas, ask the town clerk which local zoning governs the parcel3. Floodplain rules cover mapped special flood hazard areas on the flood insurance maps20. A zoning permit from the county zoning administrator comes before new development or a change in use, and a land-use permit lapses after two years if substantial work has not begun13. Structures generally sit at least 10 feet from side lot lines, with 25 feet combined across both side yards, and highway setbacks vary by road class21. Shoreland structures generally must stand at least 75 feet and 2 vertical feet from the ordinary high-water mark, subject to exceptions22, and nothing within 75 feet of it may exceed 35 feet in height23. Impervious-surface limits apply in shoreland, but we could not confirm a numeric coverage limit24. Unincorporated lots generally need at least one acre under the county's land-development rules, unless a city zoning provision or a stricter municipal ordinance applies9.
How do septic permits work in Clark County?
Clark County Planning and Zoning administers the county septic ordinance, which applies to the whole county and needs no town, city or village approval5. A sanitary permit comes before building any structure that needs a septic system (POWTS) or a nonplumbing sanitation system14. Applications need a soil and site evaluation and system plans, and a state sanitary permit is required before a POWTS is installed, replaced or modified14. Staff review soil tests and sanitary permits, and inspect every system at reconnection before backfilling825. The published fee schedule lists $350 for a new state sanitary permit and $150 for a county sanitary permit for non-plumbing sanitation; it is dated February 1, 2022, so confirm current amounts, and an after-the-fact POWTS application adds $1002627. A nonplumbing system is permitted only where the premises have no indoor plumbing or running water28. Wisconsin requires every septic system to be inspected at least once every 3 years29. Only about 0.3% of Clark County soils rate without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so plan for a parcel-specific soil test and possibly an engineered system30.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Clark County?
We could not confirm a countywide rule for long-term RV occupancy, private-land camping or tiny-home occupancy in Clark County. The answer can depend on town zoning and county shoreland or floodplain controls319. A manufactured home installed as a new dwelling needs a UDC permit, but that permit does not say whether the parcel allows the use1. Off-grid sanitation is no workaround for a plumbed dwelling, since a nonplumbing system is limited to premises without indoor plumbing or running water28. We also could not confirm a minimum dwelling size. Give Clark County Planning, Zoning & Land Information the parcel number and proposed use, then ask the town about occupancy and local dimensional rules17.
What are the steps to build a home in Clark County?
Identify the municipality and ask Clark County Planning, Zoning & Land Information which zoning, shoreland or floodplain approvals apply1917.
Confirm whether the municipality or Wisconsin DSPS issues the UDC permit and assigns the inspector15.
Complete soil and site work and obtain the sanitary permit before installing a POWTS or a structure that needs one14.
File the county zoning or land-use application and request the current fee schedule1326.
Submit plans, required data and the fee to the UDC permit authority1.
Get access approval; county-highway right-of-way work requires a Highway Department permit3112.
Schedule building and septic inspections, then obtain the certificate of compliance where county zoning applies18811.
What should you check before buying land in Clark County?
Verify septic feasibility, zoning jurisdiction, mapped floodplain or shoreland status, lot size and legal access before closing2019. Unincorporated lots generally need at least one acre, subject to municipal rules and stated exceptions9. A land division creating five or more parcels or building sites of ten acres or less is a subdivision, and no county land-use or sanitary permit can issue until the subdivision requirements are met32. Access easements and private roads generally must be at least three rods wide, the local accepting authority must approve the point of access, and a town board must approve easements serving more than two lots33. For a subdivision near public water, the furnishing municipality decides whether connection is feasible; where public water is unavailable, individual systems must meet Wisconsin DNR standards34. Get a parcel-specific soil evaluation, since only about 0.3% of county soils rate without severe limitations for a conventional drain field30.
Watch-outs
A UDC building permit does not replace Clark County zoning, sanitary or certificate-of-compliance approvals that apply to the parcel1311.
Clark County zoning covers regulated shoreland and mapped floodplain areas; zoning elsewhere must be confirmed with the town193.
Only about 0.3% of Clark County soils rate free of severe conventional drain-field limits, so make an accepted soil evaluation a purchase contingency30.
Land division and access rules can delay permits: a regulated subdivision must comply before county land-use or sanitary authorization, and private access needs local or town approval3233.
Written October 15, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.
Clark County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score
How Clark County scores
Seclusion64100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency67100% ev.
Admin Boringness44100% ev.
Durability69100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost69100% ev.
Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →
$222kTypical home
1.5%Property tax
$5,034Land / acre
33.6"Annual rain
1.2% of yrsSevere drought
0.9 / yr (+0.9)Mid-century 100°F days
13.1 daysMid-century dry spell
1.79" (+10.3%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.68×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,067Home insurance / yr
1.3% / yrInsurance growth
0.5%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
24,833People within 30 min
1,087,283People within 2 hr
21,364Radius comparison (15 mi)
28.7People / sq mi
0.1%Federal land
99%Land at 15% slope or less
0.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Clark County
Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.
Not yet researched: Abbotsford · Town of Beaver · Town of Butler · Colby · Town of Colby · Village of Curtiss · Town of Dewhurst · Village of Dorchester · Town of Eaton · Town of Foster · Town of Fremont · Town of Grant · Village of Granton · Town of Green Grove · Greenwood · Town of Hendren · Town of Hewett · Town of Hixon · Town of Hoard · Town of Levis · Town of Longwood · Loyal · Town of Loyal · Town of Lynn · Town of Mayville · Town of Mead · Town of Mentor · Owen · Town of Pine Valley · Town of Reseburg · Town of Seif · Town of Sherman · Town of Sherwood · Thorp · Town of Thorp · Town of Unity · Town of Warner · Town of Washburn · Town of Weston · Town of Withee · Village of Withee · Town of Worden · Town of York
Answers from the rulebook for Clark County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Clark County rules
Certificate of occupancyRequired
Buildings and land uses subject to Clark County zoning regulations in unincorporated areas.
The county ordinance calls this document a certificate of compliance.
Application is concurrent with the zoning permit.
A temporary certificate may be issued for part of a building.
issuance period: 10 days (after completion of permitted work if the building or use conforms)
“No land shall be occupied or used, and no building hereafter erected, altered or moved shall be occupied, until a certificate of compliance is issued by the zoning administrator.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Occupation or use of land, and occupation of buildings erected, altered, or moved, in the county land-use jurisdiction.
“No land shall be occupied or used, and no building hereafter erected, altered or moved shall be occupied, until a certificate of compliance is issued by the zoning administrator.”
County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)
County-administered Shoreland/Wetland and Floodplain Zoning Ordinances in Clark County, limited to regulated shoreland and floodplain areas.
The ordinances cover areas within 300 feet of navigable streams and rivers, or within 1,000 feet of navigable lakes, ponds, and flowages, or to the landward side of the floodplain, whichever distance is greater.
The county page states that drainage, clearing, filling, grading, construction, and other land-disturbing activities within the regulated zone may need a permit.
The source does not establish a general countywide zoning-district ordinance for all private land outside these regulated areas.
shoreland distance from navigable streams/rivers: 300 feet · shoreland distance from navigable lakes, ponds, and flowages: 1000 feet
“Clark County Zoning has regulatory responsibilities through the Shoreland/Wetland and Floodplain Zoning Ordinances. These ordinances cover the area within 300 feet of navigable streams/rivers or area within 1,000 feet of navigable lakes, ponds and flowages or to the landward side of the floodplain; whichever distance is greater.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Present (with conditions) — County zoning administered in unincorporated shoreland and floodplain areas.
“Clark County Zoning has regulatory responsibilities through the Shoreland/Wetland and Floodplain Zoning Ordinances. These ordinances cover the area within 300 feet of navigable streams/rivers or area within 1,000 feet of navigable lakes, ponds and flowages or to the landward side of the floodplain; whichever distance is greater.”
Present (with conditions) — County shoreland/wetland and floodplain zoning in regulated areas of Clark County, including unincorporated areas.
“Clark County Zoning has regulatory responsibilities through the Shoreland/Wetland and Floodplain Zoning Ordinances.”
Zoning districtsPartial
Published county zoning districts and mapped areas for floodplain, shoreland, and shoreland-wetland regulation.
The county code identifies floodplain and shoreland regulatory areas.
The official sources opened do not establish a comprehensive countywide zoning-district map for all private land.
“The flood hazard areas regulated by this ordinance are divided into districts as follows: a) The Floodway District (FW), is the channel of a river or stream and those portions of the floodplain adjoining the channel required to carry the regional floodwaters, within AE Zones as shown on the FIRM, or within A Zones shown on the FIRM when determined according to s. 12-141.”
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Lots and parcels in unincorporated Clark County, including shoreland areas, subject to county land-development rules.
The county rule states that Chapter 20 minimum-lot-size regulation applies throughout the unincorporated area, including shoreland areas.
Municipal zoning provisions or a more restrictive municipal ordinance may apply.
Substandard-lot exceptions are subject to the conditions in Sec. 22-332.
minimum lot area: >= 1 acre (except where city zoning or a more restrictive municipal ordinance applies)
“A minimum lot area of one acre is required by this article except where any of the following apply: (a) The city's zoning provisions apply or where a more restrictive municipal ordinance applies.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Specified — Subdivision lots governed by Chapter 20 in unincorporated Clark County.
“A minimum lot area of one acre is required by this article except where any of the following apply: (a) The city's zoning provisions apply or where a more restrictive municipal ordinance applies.”
Specified — Unincorporated Clark County shoreland areas regulated by the county shoreland ordinance.
“Minimum lot size shall be established to afford protection against danger to health, safety and welfare, and protection against pollution of the adjacent body of water. Ordinance chapter 20 Land Development minimum lot size regulation shall apply throughout the unincorporated area of Clark County; including shoreland areas;”
SetbacksSpecified
Structures subject to Chapter 22 setbacks in unincorporated Clark County.
Side-yard setbacks generally require at least ten feet from side property lines and an aggregate side-yard width of 25 feet.
Agricultural fences, privacy/security/open fences, compliant POWTS, certain public-utility facilities, and runoff-treatment devices have stated exemptions or separate conditions.
Highway setbacks vary by highway class.
side-yard setback: >= 10 feet (Except for structures or objects listed in Sec. 22-360.) · aggregate side-yard width: >= 25 feet (Applies to both side yards together.) · Class A highway setback: 110 feet from centerline or 50 feet from right-of-way line, whichever is greater · Class B highway setback: 75 feet from centerline or 42 feet from right-of-way line, whichever is greater · Class C highway setback: 63 feet from centerline or 30 feet from right-of-way line, whichever is greater
“All structures, except those listed as exemptions in ordinance section 22-360 which may require a lesser setback, shall be set back at least ten feet from the side property lines to create a sideyard. The minimum aggregate width of both side yards shall be 25 feet.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Specified — Structures in unincorporated Clark County subject to county shoreland and highway setback rules.
“The setback from class A highways shall be 110 feet from the centerline of the highway or 50 feet from the right of way line, whichever is greater.”
Specified — Unincorporated Clark County shoreland areas regulated by the county shoreland ordinance.
“Regulating side yards and building setbacks from roadways and waterways;”
Lot coverageSpecified
Impervious-surface controls in unincorporated Clark County shoreland areas.
The county shoreland ordinance limits impervious surfaces to control runoff.
The exact numeric coverage limit was not extracted during this run.
“Up to 15% impervious surface is allowed on the portion of a lot that is within 300 feet of the OHWM.”
Building heightSpecified
Structures within 75 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of navigable waters.
The 35-foot limit applies within 75 feet of the ordinary high-water mark.
The ordinance defines how structure height is measured.
Other applicable zoning regulations may impose additional limits.
maximum structure height near navigable waters: <= 35 feet (within 75 feet of the ordinary high-water mark)
“To protect and preserve wildlife habitat and natural scenic beauty, on or after February 1, 2010, a county may not permit any construction that results in a structure taller than 35 feet within 75 feet of the OHWM of any navigable waters.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Specified — Near-shore structures in unincorporated Clark County shoreland areas.
“To protect and preserve wildlife habitat and natural scenic beauty, on or after February 1, 2010, a county may not permit any construction that results in a structure taller than 35 feet within 75 feet of the OHWM of any navigable waters.”
Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)
Private onsite wastewater treatment systems and nonplumbing sanitation systems throughout Clark County.
State sanitary permits apply before POWTS installation, replacement, or modification.
County sanitary permits apply before constructing or installing nonplumbing sanitation systems and before POWTS reconnection.
The county ordinance incorporates Wisconsin statutes and administrative rules.
“A state sanitary permit shall be obtained [...] A county sanitary permit shall be obtained prior to constructing or installing a nonplumbing sanitation system.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
County (with conditions) — Private onsite wastewater treatment systems and nonplumbing sanitation systems in Clark County.
“This article applies to the entire geographical area of the county. This article shall not require approval or be subject to disapproval by any town, city, or village.”
County — Private onsite wastewater treatment systems and nonplumbing sanitation systems in Clark County.
“The planning and zoning department shall be responsible for the administration of this article.”
Septic permitRequired
POWTS and nonplumbing sanitation systems in Clark County.
Every POWTS requires a separate application and sanitary permit.
A sanitary permit must precede installation, establishment, or construction of a structure requiring a POWTS or nonplumbing sanitation system.
A permit is not required for specified manhole risers, covers, baffles, filters, pumps, valves, controllers, or meters.
“Every private on-site wastewater treatment system (POWTS) shall require a separate application and sanitary permit.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — POWTS and nonplumbing sanitation systems in Clark County.
“A sanitary permit shall be obtained by the property owner, his agent or contractor, in the name of the property owner, prior to the installation, establishment or construction of any structure which requires a POWTS or nonplumbing sanitation system.”
Septic inspectionRequired
POWTS field inspection and reconnection inspection in Clark County.
The county staff page states that POWTS field inspections are performed.
All systems must be inspected at reconnection before backfilling.
The permit and final inspection do not warrant system function.
“The specialist is responsible for the field inspections of POWTS and provide on-site technical assistance and review of soil tests.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — POWTS and nonplumbing sanitation systems covered by the county ordinance.
“The private on-site wastewater treatment system (POWTS) or nonplumbing sanitation system [...] shall be installed and inspected only after a sanitary permit has been obtained.”
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Nonplumbing sanitation systems in Clark County.
A nonplumbing sanitation system may be permitted only when the structure or premises is not provided with indoor plumbing.
If plumbing is installed or running water is supplied, another acceptable sewage-disposal method must be provided.
A county sanitary permit is required.
“A nonplumbing sanitation system may be permitted only when the structure or premises served by the nonplumbing sanitation is not provided with an indoor plumbing system.”
Mandatory utility hookupConditional
Subdivision water supply and sewage-service decisions.
Where an existing public water supply is on or near the subdivision, the furnishing municipality and planning agency determine feasibility and connection requirements.
Where no public water supply exists, individual water systems are permitted under Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources standards.
The opened source did not establish a general countywide sewer-connection requirement.
“Where there is an existing public water supply system on or near the subdivision, the local municipality furnishing such service and the planning agency shall determine the feasibility of service and the requirements to be followed by the subdivider in connecting to the system. Where there is no existing public water supply, individual water supply systems will be permitted in accordance with the minimum standards and regulations of the department of natural resources.”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Land divisions creating five or more parcels or building sites of ten acres or less, or successive divisions within five years, in unincorporated Clark County.
The chapter applies throughout the unincorporated area.
Divisions must comply with Chapter 20 and applicable Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 236.
No county land-use or sanitary permit authorizing building or improvement may issue until the chapter requirements are met.
A survey meeting Chapter 236 and county requirements is required for parcels resulting from a land division of ten acres or less.
subdivision threshold: >= 5 parcels or building sites (each ten acres or less, or successive divisions within five years)
“The subdivision regulation provision contained in this chapter shall apply throughout the unincorporated area of the county.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Regulated (with conditions) — Subdivisions in the unincorporated area of Clark County.
“The subdivision regulation provision contained in this chapter shall apply throughout the unincorporated area of the county.”
Driveway accessRequired
New, altered, or culvert-replacement driveway access involving a Clark County highway right-of-way.
Only the landowner can apply.
The Highway Department reviews the request, inspects the site, and issues a permit if conditions are appropriate.
State highways are under Wisconsin state jurisdiction rather than county jurisdiction.
“The Clark County Highway Department requires that you have a permit for any type of work done in the highway right-of-way for driveway access.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — Subdivision access easements, private roads, and driveways abutting local roads.
“All proposed access easements, private roads and driveways abutting a local road must have the point of access approved by the local accepting authority.”
Required — Access for proposed subdivision lots in unincorporated Clark County.
“All proposed lots are to be developed with frontage to a dedicated public road. If an access easement or private road is proposed, the planning agency must approve it and the following will be required:”
Building in a floodplainRequired
Development in mapped special flood hazard areas regulated by Clark County.
The ordinance regulates zones A, AO, AH, A1-30, and AE on Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
Additional areas identified on maps approved by the Wisconsin DNR and local community may also be regulated.
County zoning maps are maintained by the Planning, Zoning, and Land Information Department.
“This ordinance regulates all areas of special flood hazard identified as zones A, AO, AH, A1-30, or AE on the Flood Insurance Rate Map.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Buildings and structures constructed or placed in a floodplain.
“Buildings and structures to be constructed or placed in a floodplain shall be required to comply with any applicable floodplain zoning ordinance.”
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
County land-use and POWTS-related applications.
The fee schedule states it is effective February 1, 2022.
POWTS fees include $350 for a new state sanitary permit, $150 for a county sanitary permit for non-plumbing sanitation, $250 for non-holding-tank POWTS plan review of 1,000 GPD or less, and $150 for structures and grading over 100 square feet.
Land-use permit fees are waived for projects on Clark County-owned property.
new state sanitary permit: 350 USD · county sanitary permit, non-plumbing sanitation: 150 USD · land use permit, structures and grading over 100 square feet: 150 USD
Variable (with conditions) — County land-use, building, certificate, subdivision, hearing, notice, and special-exception fees, plus POWTS fees.
“The county board may, by resolution, adopt fees for the following: (1) Land use permits; (2) Building permits; (3) Certificates of compliance; (4) Subdivision reviews; (5) Public hearings; (6) Legal notice publications; (7) Special exception permits.”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
County land-use and POWTS permitting, with separate state or municipal processes for UDC permits.
County forms are published online.
POWTS applications require supporting soil/site, system-plan, maintenance, and existing-system information.
UDC applications are submitted to the delegated municipality or DSPS.
“Emergency POWTS Installation Agreement County Sanitary Permit Application Holding Tank by Choice Affidavit POWTS Plan Review Application”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Partial — County zoning, sanitary, land-use, and POWTS permit processes.
“Except where another section of this chapter specifically exempts certain types of development from this requirement, a zoning permit shall be obtained from the zoning administrator before any new development or any change in the use of an existing building or structure is initiated or before any land use is substantially altered including, but not limited to: (1) Before any building or other structure is erected, moved or structurally altered so as to change its use or increase its floor area; (2) Before any land use is substantially altered; (3) Before any private sewerage or water system is constructed or structurally altered.”
Partial — County planning and zoning permits and compliance inspections in unincorporated Clark County.
“Staff responsibilities include review and issuance of permits, construction and compliance inspection, complaint investigation, and maintaining records of all these activities.”
Wisconsin rules that apply here
Building permitRequired
New one- and two-family dwellings covered by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, including covered additions and alterations.
The cited brochure states that permit requirements for alterations and additions vary by municipality.
Construction begins only after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted.
The enforcing jurisdiction may be the municipality, county, or state.
Local zoning, land-use, floodplain, sanitary, well, driveway, utility, and other approvals may also be required.
A building permit cannot be issued for a new dwelling using a private onsite wastewater treatment system until a sanitary permit has been issued.
“Begin construction after plans are approved and building permit is issued and posted.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured-home installations.
“A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Clark County.
“A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Clark County, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.
“A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units.”
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
An owner obtaining construction and erosion-control permits for a dwelling covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.
The owner must occupy the home currently or will occupy it after completion.
The exemption permits the owner to take out the construction and erosion-control permits without the state-certified Dwelling Contractor and Dwelling Contractor Qualifier arrangement described for contractors.
The owner-occupancy statement must be checked on the permit application if the applicant does not possess Dwelling Contractor certification.
The source describes an owner-occupancy condition; it does not establish a general exemption for non-occupant owners.
“The construction and erosion control permits must be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor, who also employs a state-certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier, or by the owner who occupies the home currently or will after completion.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Available (with conditions) — An owner-occupant applying for an erosion-control or construction permit for a UDC dwelling.
“I vouch that I am or will be an owner-occupant of this dwelling for which I am applying for an erosion control or construction permit without a Dwelling Contractor Certification and have read the cautionary statement regarding contractor responsibility on the reverse side of the last ply of this form.”
Conditional — An owner-occupant applying for a Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permit for a one- or two-family dwelling in Clark County.
“You will leave those areas blank. At Step 5, you will check the box above your electronic signature which states “I vouch that I am or will be an owner-occupant of this dwelling for which I am applying for an erosion control or construction permit without a Dwelling Contractor Certification and have read the cautionary statement regarding contractor responsibility on the reverse side of the last ply of this form.””
Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
Public buildings, places of employment, and multifamily buildings subject to Wisconsin's commercial building code.
The Division of Industry Services reviews plans before construction for compliance with state statutes and building codes.
Local certified municipalities may provide plan review and inspection services for certain building types.
The Wisconsin Commercial Building Code adopted the 2021 ICC effective September 1, 2025; plans submitted November 1, 2025 or later must comply with the updated code.
Municipalities may have grandfathered fire detection, prevention, and suppression ordinances under 2013 Act 270.
2021 ICC adoption date: September 1, 2025 (The deadline for building plan compliance was delayed.) · updated-code plan-submission deadline: November 1, 2025 (Plans submitted on or after this date must comply with the updated Commercial Building Code.)
“2013 Act 270 establishes a uniform commercial building code in Wisconsin while allowing municipalities to grandfather fire detection, prevention, and suppression ordinances”
7 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted (with conditions) — One- and two-family dwellings in Clark County and statewide Wisconsin.
“The Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) is the statewide building code for one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980. The Division of Industry Services (DIS) provides consultation and education concerning UDC construction standards and inspection procedures. Building materials are evaluated for conformance with standards. UDC inspection and contractor credentials are administered. The UDC is enforced in all Wisconsin municipalities.”
Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwelling units, including manufactured homes, in Clark County.
“The program governing one- and two-family dwelling units (including manufactured homes) is also called the UDC program, referring to the Uniform Dwelling Code. Enforces construction standards and inspection procedures including evaluation of building materials.”
Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations in Clark County.
“The program governing one- and two-family dwelling units (including manufactured homes) is also called the UDC program, referring to the Uniform Dwelling Code. Enforces construction standards and inspection procedures including evaluation of building materials.”
Adopted (with conditions) — Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code for one- and two-family dwelling units, including manufactured homes.
“The program governing one- and two-family dwelling units (including manufactured homes) is also called the UDC program, referring to the Uniform Dwelling Code.”
Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin built since June 1, 1980.
“The Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) is the statewide building code for one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980.”
Adopted (with conditions) — New Wisconsin one- and two-family dwelling construction, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations
“A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
Adopted — Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code, chapters SPS 320-325, for new one- and two-family dwelling units, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.
“SPS 320-325 Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), construction standard for 1-2 family dwelling units, applies uniformly statewide”
InspectionsRequired
Each phase of construction of a one- or two-family dwelling governed by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.
Inspections are called for before each phase is covered up.
The local inspector’s instructions apply.
The inspector has two business days after the inspection request and the work being ready to inspect before the work may be covered.
Inspections check compliance with the code and may also check compliance with approved plans.
The UDC is enforced by municipal or county building inspection departments or the Wisconsin Division of Industry Services.
inspection response period: 2 business days (After the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before the work may be covered up.)
“Call for inspections of each phase of construction prior to covering it up - check the local inspector’s instructions. The inspector has two business days after the date that you make the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before you may cover up the work. Inspectors will check for compliance with the code.”
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — New one- and two-family dwellings.
“The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings. When ready for inspection, notify the inspector identified on your UDC permit.”
Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Clark County, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured-home installations, under Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code.
“The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings. When ready for inspection, notify the inspector identified on your UDC permit. 1. Footings (includes excavation, etc.) 2. Foundation and foundation reinforcement 3. Rough (includes electrical, plumbing, HVAC, framing, etc.) 4. Insulation 5. Final”
Required — New one- and two-family dwellings in Clark County.
“The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings. When ready for inspection, notify the inspector identified on your UDC permit.”
Required — New one- and two-family dwellings subject to the Wisconsin UDC.
“The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings.”
Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)
Occupancy of a manufactured home installed as a new one- or two-family dwelling in Wisconsin.
The Uniform Dwelling Code applies to new one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980.
The UDC includes manufactured homes and the installation of manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007.
Occupancy follows a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found.
Some municipalities issue occupancy permits.
The dwelling exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.
Local sanitary requirements may require certain plumbing systems.
Local zoning and land-use requirements may also apply.
UDC coverage start date: >= 1980-06-01 date (The cited coverage is for new one- and two-family dwellings and their additions and alterations.) · manufactured-home installation coverage start date: >= 2007-04-01 date · exterior completion deadline: <= 2 years after permit issuance
“The installation of manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007.”
Well permitLimited
Construction of private wells statewide in Wisconsin.
A Well Construction Notification Number must be obtained before constructing a new private well that is not a high-capacity well.
Exceptions to the notification requirement include high-capacity wells, reconstruction of existing wells, and wells on Native American property; high-capacity wells or other wells requiring written DNR approval follow the approval requirements.
Some DNR-approved county ordinances additionally require a well permit before construction.
A Well Construction Report must be submitted to DNR within 30 days after construction.
well construction notification fee: 50.5 USD (Fee and notification number are not refundable or transferable.) · well construction report deadline: 30 days after construction
“Wisconsin law requires that a property owner provide advance notice to DNR before construction of any new private well that is not a high capacity well, and advance notice of any heat exchange drillhole construction (geothermal system) that does not require a written DNR approval.”
Agricultural exemptionConditional
Wisconsin farmland preservation zoning districts and farmland preservation agreements; these are conditional agricultural-use protections and tax-credit frameworks, not a blanket exemption from local land-use or land-division ordinances.
Certified farmland preservation zoning districts limit land uses to agriculture and other compatible uses.
Local ordinances are crafted locally and must meet or be more restrictive than Chapter 91 standards.
A farmland preservation agreement requires land to remain in agricultural use for 10 years and comply with state soil and water conservation standards.
Agreement eligibility requires ownership of the farmland, location in a designated Agricultural Enterprise Area, at least $6,000 gross farm revenue during the last year or $18,000 during the last three years, and compliance with applicable conservation standards.
A certificate of compliance from the county land conservation committee is required to show compliance.
Other local zoning and land-division ordinances continue to apply.
A covered agreement provides exemption from special assessments for sanitary sewer or water imposed by specified local governmental entities.
Releases before expiration require written consent, a DATCP finding that agricultural use of other protected farmland will not be impaired, and payment of the specified conversion fee.
farmland preservation agreement term: 10 years (agreements effective before December 8, 2023, were minimum 15-year agreements) · minimum gross farm revenue during last year: >= 6000 USD (alternative test of $18,000 during the last three years) · minimum gross farm revenue during last three years: >= 18000 USD (alternative to the $6,000 last-year test) · tax credit: $10.00 per acre or $12.50 per acre if also in a certified farmland preservation zoning district (other eligibility requirements apply)
“Remember that other local ordinances (such as zoning and land division ordinances) continue to apply to your land, regardless of whether you sign an agreement.”
Short-term rentalsLimited
Lodging rented to tourists or transients for short periods in Wisconsin, including homes, condos, cabins, cottages, and similar lodging facilities.
A DATCP lodging permit is required for all lodging facilities in Wisconsin.
A tourist or transient must be away from the person's permanent address.
The reviewed source does not establish local zoning or municipal operating restrictions.
“If lodging is rented to a tourist or transient, it will require a permit.”
Campground & park staysLimited
Recreational trailers, pickup truck campers, and motor homes occupying campsites in Wisconsin State Park System family campgrounds.
Camping reservations are required before setting up on any site.
A campsite may contain no more than one recreation trailer, pickup truck camper, or motor home.
No person may camp or leave a camping unit in a family campground for more than 14 days in any 21 days.
Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit.
maximum camping-unit occupancy per campsite: 1 recreation trailer, pickup truck camper, or motor home (Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit.) · maximum stay: 14 days in any 21 days
“A campsite may be occupied by no more than one recreation trailer, pickup truck camper or motor home. Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit. [...] No one may camp or leave a camping unit in a family campground for more than 14 days in any 21 days.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — Occupancy of recreational vehicles, including recreation trailers, pickup truck campers, motor homes, camper vans, and truck campers, at Wisconsin State Park System campsites.
“A campsite may be occupied by no more than one recreation trailer, pickup truck camper or motor home. Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit.”
Limited — Temporary camping at Wisconsin State Park System properties.
“Camping reservations are required and can be made up to 11 months in advance of your planned date of occupancy. Campers must make a reservation before setting up on any site.”
Limited — Temporary camping in Wisconsin State Park System family campgrounds.
“Camping reservations are required and can be made up to 11 months in advance of your planned date of occupancy. Campers must make a reservation before setting up on any site. [...] No one may camp or leave a camping unit in a family campground for more than 14 days in any 21 days. [...] Not all properties offer camping during non-summer months. Camping seasons vary by property.”
county zoning authorityGeneral
Wisconsin counties may enact and amend county zoning ordinances under Wis. Stat. § 59.69 for participating towns, which are generally unincorporated areas.
County zoning applies only in towns that have adopted county zoning.
After a comprehensive revision of the county zoning ordinance, the town has authority to decide whether county zoning applies in the town.
Towns have authority to approve or disapprove amendments to a county zoning ordinance.
A town that does not fall under county zoning may be unzoned or may have its own town zoning ordinance.
“Counties exercise zoning ordinances under s. 59.69, Wis. Stats. County zoning only applies in towns that have adopted county zoning.”
county building authorityGeneral
Wisconsin county authority to administer construction and inspection of new one- and two-family dwellings, including in unincorporated areas, through the UDC delegation and inspection framework.
Counties must have delegated authority to exercise UDC jurisdiction.
A county with delegated authority has jurisdiction over new one- and two-family dwellings in cities, villages, and towns that do not have their own delegated authority.
The DSPS page directs applicants to the municipality when it has delegated authority and otherwise to DSPS or the appointed county inspector.
The authority described is for construction and inspection under the statewide UDC; local zoning, land-use, sanitary, floodplain, and other requirements may still apply.
covered construction: new one- and two-family dwellings (Jurisdiction depends on DSPS delegation and whether the municipality has its own delegated authority.)
“Counties: Counties with delegated authority have been authorized jurisdiction over the construction and inspection of new one- and two-family dwellings in cities, villages, and towns which do not have their own delegated authority.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
General — County authority to enforce the statewide Uniform Dwelling Code and administer building inspection and permitting for new one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin, including unincorporated areas where the county is the responsible inspection authority.
“The UDC is primarily enforced by municipal or county building inspectors who must be state-certified. In lieu of local enforcement, municipalities have the option to have the state provide enforcement for just new homes.”
Limited — County enforcement of Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code for new one- and two-family dwellings in municipalities, including towns, that do not have their own delegated authority
“Counties: Counties with delegated authority have been authorized jurisdiction over the construction and inspection of new one- and two-family dwellings in cities, villages, and towns which do not have their own delegated authority.”
Set by your township or city, not the county
In Wisconsin, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Clark County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your township or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.
Minimum dwelling size
Living in an RV
Camping on your land
Tiny homes
Accessory dwellings
Still unanswered
We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.
Local zoning — Aggregate town, city, and village zoning in Clark County.
Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.
Living off-grid in Clark County, Wisconsin
Is Clark County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Clark County scores 75/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and manageable long-term carry cost.
Do you need a building permit in Clark County, Wisconsin?
Clark County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Clark County Planning, Zoning & Land Information Department. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.
How much does land cost in Clark County, Wisconsin?
Land in Clark County runs about $5,034 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Clark County?
Clark County gets about 33.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.2% of years.
How remote is Clark County?
A representative private-land location has about 24,833 people within a 30-minute drive and 1,087,283 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.
