Building permits, zoning and land rules in Florence County, Wisconsin
75Index Score / 100 #17 of 72 in Wisconsin
A building permit is required for a new one- or two-family home in Florence County, Wisconsin1. The state lists Florence County as the delegated Uniform Dwelling Code authority for towns, cities and villages that do not have their own, so building permits there come from the county rather than the state2. Zoning approval depends on the town, and septic permits for every address come from the county Zoning Administrator together with a state sanitary permit34.
At a glance
Building permit
Required for new one- or two-family homes; Florence County is the delegated UDC authority where a municipality has none of its own12
Zoning
General county zoning applies only where the town has approved it; confirm current town status3
Septic permit
A state sanitary permit is required before installation or modification; the county Zoning Administrator administers the county sanitary permit and inspects installations546
RV living
Countywide private-land occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask the zoning office for the parcel's town7
Tiny home
Countywide occupancy and minimum-size rules could not be confirmed; town zoning status matters7
Building inspections
Required by phase before work is covered; follow the local inspector's scheduling instructions8
Owner-builder
An owner who occupies or will occupy the home may take out construction and erosion-control permits9
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Do you need a building permit in Florence County, Wisconsin?
Yes. Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code requires a building permit for a new one- or two-family dwelling in Florence County, and work starts only after plans are approved and the permit is issued and posted1. Where Florence County is the enforcing authority, its ordinance also requires a permit for covered construction and additions and for alterations above $2,500 in a twelve-month period10. Structural changes and major mechanical extensions require permits, while re-siding, re-roofing, interior-surface finishing and cabinetry are exempt under the county ordinance10. County UDC fees are set by County Board resolution rather than as a fixed ordinance amount11.
Who issues building permits in Florence County, and how do you reach them?
Start with the Florence County Planning, Zoning & Solid Waste Department at 501 Lake Avenue in Florence; the zoning office can be reached at 715-528-3430 or ksleeter@florencecountywi.gov12. The Florence County Zoning Administrator administers the county sanitary ordinance13. For new-home building permits, the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services lists Florence County as delegated to administer the Uniform Dwelling Code in towns, cities and villages that have no delegated authority of their own; a municipality with its own authority issues building permits itself2. Florence County's ordinance applies where a municipality without a UDC program has adopted a resolution requesting county enforcement10. Ask the zoning office to confirm the issuer and inspector for the parcel before filing; septic permits stay with the county either way12. For county-trunk access questions, contact the Florence County Highway Department at 5471 CTH N in Florence or 715-528-425314. A state-highway connection requires a WisDOT permit15.
Does Florence County have zoning?
Yes, but general county zoning is not automatically identical in every town. Florence County publishes general zoning districts for unincorporated areas or applicable portions, and the ordinance takes effect within a town only after town-board approval and filing of the approving resolution3. Current adoption status for every Florence County town could not be confirmed, so ask the Planning, Zoning & Solid Waste Department which ordinance and district govern the parcel312. County shoreland, wetland and floodplain zoning applies countywide7. Florence County regulates land division, but the applicable thresholds and procedures could not be confirmed; ask the zoning office before splitting a parcel1612.
How do septic permits work in Florence County?
The Florence County Zoning Administrator administers the county sanitary ordinance13. A valid state sanitary permit is required before a private sewage system is installed or modified517. A county sanitary permit is also required for covered repair or reconnection work and before constructing a non-plumbing sanitation system18. The Zoning Administrator inspects installations and modifications, and must receive notice for final inspection of every private sewage system installed, modified or reconnected6. The county application includes a site plan, approved soil test, applicable system plans, required agreements and plans, and the fee19. County soil data rates 0% of soils as free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the soil test an early purchase contingency20. A building with plumbing must connect to public sewer where available; if sewer later becomes available, the private system must be disconnected within one year21.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Florence County?
We could not confirm a countywide rule allowing private-land RV occupancy, temporary camping or tiny-home occupancy in Florence County. General zoning depends on town approval, so ask the Planning, Zoning & Solid Waste Department which zoning ordinance and district apply before placing or occupying a unit312. Florence County permits a non-plumbing sanitation system only when the served building has no water service or plumbing; adding plumbing or running water requires another acceptable sewage-disposal method22. Non-plumbing systems are prohibited on or adjacent to lakes and lake back lots except in the listed public, campground, group-camp and remote-location situations22. We also could not confirm a countywide minimum dwelling size, so ask the zoning office about the parcel's district before choosing a tiny-home design12.
Building a home in Florence County: the steps, in order
Ask the Planning, Zoning & Solid Waste Department which zoning ordinance and district apply to the parcel312.
Obtain applicable floodplain, zoning and land-use approvals before the building permit23.
If public sewer is unavailable, complete the soil test and sanitary-permit application; if the home will use a private well, obtain the sanitary or well permit from the county or municipality241925.
Confirm whether the county or the town's own inspection department issues the UDC building permit2.
Submit complete plot, erosion-control, foundation, floor-layout, cross-section and elevation plans, thermal-envelope documentation, the application, fees and copies of related permits26.
An owner who occupies or will occupy the home may take out the construction and erosion-control permits, but other permit and licensing requirements still apply9.
Resolve road access with the Highway Department or WisDOT, depending on the road1415.
After permit issuance, schedule each inspection phase before covering the work and follow the local inspector's instructions8.
What should you check before buying land in Florence County?
Put septic feasibility first: 0% of Florence County soils are rated free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field20. Check the parcel's exact zoning jurisdiction, because general county zoning depends on town adoption while shoreland, wetland and floodplain controls apply countywide7. About 85.1% of the county has a slope of 15% or less, but 89% is wooded, so access and clearing can matter even on gentle ground2728. Federal land accounts for 27.7% of the county; verify boundaries and legal access rather than assuming an adjoining public tract provides access29. The nearest city of 100,000 or more is about 94 miles from the county center, which makes contractor scheduling and material delivery worth pricing early30. The median property-tax bill is about $2,224 per year, with an effective rate near 1.3%3132.
Watch-outs
Current town-by-town adoption of Florence County's general zoning ordinance could not be confirmed; ask the Planning, Zoning & Solid Waste Department which rules govern the parcel712.
Florence County requires public-sewer connection where service is available, and later availability triggers disconnection of the private system within one year21.
Countywide private-land RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy and minimum dwelling size could not be confirmed; obtain an answer for the parcel's town and zoning district before purchase712.
Written October 9, 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.
Florence County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score
How Florence County scores
Seclusion90100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency58100% ev.
Admin Boringness45100% ev.
Durability54100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost75100% 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 →
$201kTypical home
1.3%Property tax
$3,734Land / acre
30.5"Annual rain
4% of yrsSevere drought
0.5 / yr (+0.5)Mid-century 100°F days
11.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.37" (+10%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.6×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,004Home insurance / yr
0.1% / yrInsurance growth
0.06%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
971People within 30 min
257,008People within 2 hr
18,031Radius comparison (15 mi)
9.6People / sq mi
27.7%Federal land
85.1%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Florence 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.
Town of Aurora · Town of Commonwealth · Town of Fence · Town of Fern · Town of Florence · Town of Homestead · Town of Long Lake · Town of Tipler
Answers from the rulebook for Florence County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Florence County rules
Building permitRequired
Construction, additions, and alterations to one- and two-family dwellings and other buildings within the scope of Florence County's Uniform Dwelling Code ordinance, where Florence County is the enforcement authority.
The ordinance applies in a municipality without a Uniform Dwelling Code enforcement program only if the municipality adopts a resolution requesting county enforcement.
A building permit is required before building, adding onto, or altering a covered building when the alteration exceeds $2,500.00 in value in any twelve-month period.
Structural changes and major changes to mechanical systems involving extensions require permits.
Restoration or repair of an installation to its previous code-compliant condition, as determined by the building inspector, is exempt.
Residing, re-roofing, finishing interior surfaces, and installing cabinetry are exempt.
Building permit fees are determined by county-board resolution.
The ordinance is identified as adopted April 20, 2004; its printed effective-date field is blank.
alteration value threshold: > 2500 USD (within any twelve month period) · building permit fee: determined by resolution of the county board
“This ordinance shall apply in any municipality without a Uniform Dwelling Code enforcement program, providing the municipality adopts a resolution requesting county enforcement. [...] No person shall alter, in excess of $2,500.00 value in any twelve month period, build, add onto or alter any building within the scope of this ordinance without first obtaining a building permit for such work from Florence County.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — New one- and two-family dwelling construction in Florence County locations where the county is the delegated UDC authority, including cities, villages, and towns that do not have their own delegated authority.
“County of Florence (19999) | Delegated | PDF Letter”
Required — Construction, additions, and alterations within the Florence County UDC ordinance scope where the county is the enforcing authority.
“No person shall alter, in excess of $2,500.00 value in any twelve month period, build, add onto or alter any building within the scope of this ordinance without first obtaining a building permit for such work from Florence County.”
County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)
Florence County shoreland areas in unincorporated portions of the county, and incorporated or annexed areas only as provided by Wisconsin Statutes.
The shoreland ordinance regulates unincorporated lands within 1,000 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of navigable lakes, ponds, or flowages.
The shoreland ordinance regulates unincorporated lands within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of navigable rivers or streams, or to the landward side of the floodplain, whichever is greater.
The ordinance states that its provisions apply to unincorporated shoreland areas and to annexed or incorporated areas as provided in Wis. Stat. § 59.692(7).
The general comprehensive zoning ordinance's applicability and town-by-town approval and filing status were not independently verified from an opened ordinance page.
lake, pond, or flowage shoreland distance: <= 1000 feet (measured from the ordinary high-water mark) · river or stream shoreland distance: <= 300 feet (or to the landward side of the floodplain, whichever distance is greater)
“Florence County Zoning and Solid Waste Department administers various ordinances controlling land use and regulation. These areas include; Comprehensive Zoning, Shoreland Wetland, Livestock, Floodplain, Land Division, Private Sewage System, Non-Metallic Mining Reclamation, Uniform Dwelling Code, Minimum Housing Code, Road Naming and Uniform Addressing, Recycling, Small Demolition Waste Landfill, and Metallic Mineral Mining and Reclamation.”
Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)
Florence County's published general zoning districts and overlay zones under Chapter 10, Subchapter 1, for unincorporated areas and any town portions where the ordinance has taken effect.
The ordinance states that it affects the unincorporated areas of Florence County, or applicable portions thereof.
Within any town, the ordinance takes effect only upon approval by the applicable town board and filing with the Florence County Clerk by the applicable town clerk of a certified copy of the approving resolution.
The cited ordinance states that the 1968 Florence County Zoning Ordinance remains in effect in Aurora, Commonwealth, Fence, Florence, Homestead, Long Lake, and Tipler until approval of the newer ordinance or for one year from the day following enactment, whichever is shorter.
The cited ordinance states that if a listed town does not approve the ordinance within that one-year period, neither the newer ordinance nor the 1968 ordinance is in effect in that town.
Current town-by-town approval status, including Fern and any changes after the cited ordinance, was not confirmed from the current amended PDF.
“This Ordinance shall affect the unincorporated areas of Florence County, or applicable portions thereof [...] the following Zoning Districts and overlay zones are hereby established”
SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)
Building and structure development in unincorporated Florence County shoreland areas regulated by Chapter 10, Subchapter 2.
All building and structure development must meet Table 1 dimensional requirements.
For buildings and structures abutting navigable waters, the ordinary rule is a 75-foot setback from the ordinary high-water mark, subject to listed exceptions for piers, boat hoists, boathouses, and open fences.
A reduced principal-structure shoreland setback may be allowed by the planning and zoning administrator where the ordinance's existing-development-pattern conditions are met, but it may not be reduced below 35 feet from the ordinary high-water mark.
Other setback reductions require a variance from the board of adjustment.
Additional setback requirements apply to specified business, commercial, manufacturing, boathouse, livestock, sawdust, dumping, disposal, and other uses.
standard navigable-water setback: 75 feet (piers, boat hoists, boathouses, and open fences may require a lesser setback) · minimum reduced principal-structure shoreland setback: >= 35 feet (only under the existing-development-pattern procedure; other reductions require a variance)
“All building and structure development, (accessory, main or principal) shall meet the dimensional requirement in Table 1, Dimensions of Building Sites.”
Who permits septicCounty
Administration of county sanitary permits and private sewage-system requirements in Florence County.
The Florence County Zoning Administrator administers the sanitary ordinance.
The ordinance also requires compliance with applicable Wisconsin statutes and administrative codes.
“responsible for administering this ordinance.”
Septic permitLimited
County sanitary permits for private sewage systems in Florence County.
A county sanitary permit is required before reconnection or repair of a private sewage system.
A county sanitary permit is required before constructing or erecting a non-plumbing sanitation system.
No county sanitary permit is required for adding manhole risers or replacing manhole covers, risers, baffles, or pumps.
Applications use forms specified by the Florence County Zoning Department and require the listed application materials and fee.
“A county sanitary permit shall be obtained”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Private sewage systems and non-plumbing sanitation systems in Florence County.
“No person shall install, modify or perform work to a private sewage system unless the owner of the property on which the system is located holds a valid state sanitary permit. [...] A county sanitary permit shall be obtained prior to constructing or erecting a non-plumbing sanitation system.”
Limited — County sanitary permits for private sewage-system reconnection or repair and non-plumbing sanitation systems.
“A county sanitary permit shall be obtained by the property owner, his agent or contractor, before any private sewage system or part thereof may be reconnected or repaired.”
Required — Reconnection or repair of a private sewage system and construction or erection of a non-plumbing sanitation system.
“county sanitary permit shall be obtained”
Septic inspectionRequired
Installation or modification of POWTS and private sewage systems in Florence County.
Final-inspection notice must be given to the Zoning Administrator for all private sewage systems installed, modified, or reconnected.
Inspections must assess compliance with applicable Wisconsin administrative codes and the county ordinance.
“Installation or modification of a POWTS system shall be inspected by the Zoning Administrator for compliance with SPS 382, SPS 383, and SPS 384, Wisconsin Administrative Code, other appropriate Wisconsin Statutes and Administrative Codes and this ordinance.”
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Non-plumbing sanitation systems in Florence County.
Permitted only when the building has no water service or plumbing.
If plumbing or running water is supplied, another acceptable sewage-disposal method must be provided.
Prohibited on or adjacent to lakes and back lots of lakes, except on public lands and parks, private campgrounds, group camps, and remote locations without electrical service.
“A non-plumbing sanitation system may be permitted only when the building served is not provided with water service or plumbing. If plumbing is installed in the structure or running water is supplied to the structure, an acceptable method of sewage disposal other than, or in addition to, a non-plumbing sanitation system must be provided.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Non-plumbing sanitation systems in Florence County.
“not provided with water service or plumbing”
Mandatory utility hookupConditional
Buildings with plumbing fixtures in Florence County.
Buildings served by plumbing fixtures must connect to a public sanitary sewer where available.
Where public sewer is unavailable, a private sewage system may be used.
When public sewer becomes available, the private system must be disconnected within one year and connection made to the public sewer.
“All buildings served by plumbing fixtures shall be connected to a public sanitary sewer system where available. Where such a public sewer is not available, a private sewage system may be used. When a public sewer becomes available to the building, the private sewage system shall be disconnected within one year and a connection made to the public sewer.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Conditional — Buildings served by plumbing fixtures in Florence County.
“public sanitary sewer system where available”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Land division and subdivision activity in Florence County.
The county ordinance index confirms a Land Division ordinance exists.
Specific thresholds, approval steps, and exemptions were not reliably extracted because the linked Chapter 11 PDF timed out.
“Florence County Zoning and Solid Waste Department administers various ordinances controlling land use and regulation. These areas include; Comprehensive Zoning, Shoreland Wetland, Livestock, Floodplain, Land Division, Private Sewage System, Non-Metallic Mining Reclamation, Uniform Dwelling Code, Minimum Housing Code, Road Naming and Uniform Addressing, Recycling, Small Demolition Waste Landfill, and Metallic Mineral Mining and Reclamation.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Regulated (with conditions) — Land division and subdivision activity administered through Florence County land-use ordinances.
“These areas include; Comprehensive Zoning, Shoreland Wetland, Livestock, Floodplain, Land Division, Private Sewage System, Non-Metallic Mining Reclamation, Uniform Dwelling Code, Minimum Housing Code, Road Naming and Uniform Addressing, Recycling, Small Demolition Waste Landfill, and Metallic Mineral Mining and Reclamation.”
Building in a floodplainLimited
Development subject to Florence County floodplain regulation.
The official county ordinance index identifies a Floodplain ordinance; specific permits, district boundaries, and development standards were not extracted.
“Florence County Zoning and Solid Waste Department administers various ordinances controlling land use and regulation. These areas include; Comprehensive Zoning, Shoreland Wetland, Livestock, Floodplain, Land Division, Private Sewage System, Non-Metallic Mining Reclamation, Uniform Dwelling Code, Minimum Housing Code, Road Naming and Uniform Addressing, Recycling, Small Demolition Waste Landfill, and Metallic Mineral Mining and Reclamation.”
Permit feesVariable (with conditions)
Florence County sanitary permits and related private sewage-system work.
The ordinance states that fees are established by separate resolution of the Florence County Board.
Sanitary permit fees are due at application and are not refunded after permit issuance.
“All fees shall be established by separate resolution by the Florence County Board from time-to-time as deemed appropriate. Sanitary permit fees are due at the time of application. After any sanitary permit has been issued, the fee(s) will not be refunded.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Variable (with conditions) — County UDC building permits within the county enforcement program.
“determined by resolution of the county board”
Permit processPartial
Florence County sanitary-permit applications and issuance.
Applications must include the listed application materials, site plan, approved soil test, applicable approved plans, pump information when applicable, required agreements or affidavits, maintenance and contingency plans, and the required fee.
The Zoning Administrator may refuse incomplete or incorrect applications or delay issuance until corrections are received.
Approved permit cards must be posted in plain view during construction.
A sanitary permit is valid for two years from issuance, subject to renewal conditions.
permit validity: 2 years (Renewal must be requested before expiration and the proposed site and system must comply with applicable codes in effect when renewal is requested.)
“After review and verification of the information submitted in the application, the Zoning Administrator shall approve or deny applications for sanitary permits. When an application for a sanitary permit is denied, the Zoning Administrator shall issue a written notice to the unsuccessful applicant, stating specifically the reasons for disapproval and whether an amendment to the application could be made which would render the application approvable.”
Wisconsin rules that apply here
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.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Available (with conditions) — Construction and erosion-control permits for a home occupied by the owner currently or after completion.
“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.”
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”
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted — New one- and two-family dwelling units, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured-home installations in Wisconsin.
“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 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.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — UDC-covered one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin, including Florence County.
“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.”
Required — New one- and two-family dwellings subject to the Wisconsin UDC.
“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. When ready for inspection, notify the inspector identified on your UDC permit.”
Certificate of occupancyLimited
Occupancy of a dwelling governed by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code after construction.
Occupancy follows a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found.
Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits; the state source does not state that every municipality must issue a certificate or occupancy permit.
The dwelling exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.
exterior completion deadline: 2 years after permit issuance
“Take occupancy after receiving a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found. (Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits.) Also, the dwelling’s exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.”
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Statewide minimum shoreland standards for unincorporated land within 1,000 feet of a navigable lake, flowage, or pond, or within 300 feet of a navigable stream or the landward side of a floodplain, whichever is greater.
The standards must be met or exceeded in county shoreland zoning ordinances.
Many counties have adopted additional requirements that are not listed in the state summary.
Sewered lots require a minimum average width of 65 feet and minimum area of 10,000 square feet.
Unsewered lots require a minimum average width of 100 feet and minimum area of 20,000 square feet.
minimum lot area: 10000 sq ft (lots served by public sanitary sewer) · minimum average lot width: 65 feet (lots served by public sanitary sewer) · minimum lot area: 20000 sq ft (lots not served by public sanitary sewer) · minimum average lot width: 100 feet (lots not served by public sanitary sewer)
“Sewered lots must have a minimum average width of 65 feet and a minimum area of 10,000 square feet.”
Lot coverageSpecified
Impervious-surface coverage in the statewide shoreland framework and the DNR county model ordinance for qualifying shoreland lots or parcels.
The general standard applies to construction, reconstruction, expansion, replacement, or relocation of impervious surfaces within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark on riparian lots and parcels entirely within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark.
The general standard is 15 percent.
A lot or parcel may exceed 15 percent but not exceed 30 percent with a permit and mitigation plan.
For highly developed shorelines, counties are not required to adopt the special standards; if adopted, residential coverage may exceed 30 percent but not exceed 40 percent with a mitigation plan.
Treated impervious surfaces and defined roadways and sidewalks may be excluded from calculation when the ordinance conditions are met.
general impervious-surface limit: <= 15 percent of lot or parcel · maximum under general standard with mitigation: 30 percent of lot or parcel (permit and mitigation plan required) · highly developed shoreline residential maximum: 40 percent of lot or parcel (special standard adopted and mitigation plan required)
“The percentage of impervious surface allowed on a lot or parcel described under section 11.2 and as calculated under section 11.3 shall not exceed 15%.”
Building heightSpecified
Structures within 75 feet of the ordinary high water mark of navigable waters in Wisconsin shoreland zoning areas.
The DNR model ordinance identifies this as the NR 115.05(1)(f) height standard for county shoreland ordinances.
The prohibition does not extend beyond 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark under the stated standard.
Counties may regulate height beyond 75 feet through local ordinance.
maximum structure height within 75 feet of ordinary high water mark: <= 35 feet (A structure taller than 35 feet is prohibited within the specified area.)
“A structure taller than 35 feet within 75 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of any navigable waters is prohibited”
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.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — A UDC home using a private well in Florence County.
“Obtain sanitary or well permits from the county or municipality if the home will use a private sewage system or well.”
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.”
Driveway accessRequired
A new or altered driveway or other connection to a state trunk highway and work in state highway right-of-way.
WisDOT issues permits on state highways under its jurisdiction; county highways and municipal roads may be subject to county or municipal permitting instead.
The number of driveways serving a single state-trunk-highway frontage must be the minimum deemed necessary for reasonable service without undue impairment of safety, convenience, and utility.
A controlled-access designation or other access restriction may require a different application or prevent the connection.
A residential connection may be limited to 24 feet wide and a commercial connection to 35 feet wide at the right-of-way line.
residential connection maximum width: 24 feet at right-of-way line · commercial connection maximum width: 35 feet at right-of-way line
“So, a permit is required from WisDOT before you construct a new connection to your property. [...] Why can my connection only be 24 feet wide (residential) or 35 feet wide (commercial)? [...] These distances are measured at the right-of-way line.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Driveways and other connections between property abutting Wisconsin state highway right-of-way and the state highway.
“For state highways, WisDOT requires a connection permit.”
Limited — Multiple driveway connections serving one property frontage along a Wisconsin state trunk highway.
“The number of driveways permitted serving a single property frontage along a state trunk highway shall be the minimum deemed necessary by the department for reasonable service to the property without undue impairment of safety, convenience, and utility of the highway.”
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 Florence 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 local zoning administered by municipalities or towns within Florence 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 Florence County, Wisconsin
Is Florence County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Florence County scores 75/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 971 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost.
Do you need a building permit in Florence County, Wisconsin?
Florence County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Florence County Zoning and Planning (County Sanitary/POWTS program under WI DSPS). 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 Florence County, Wisconsin?
Land in Florence County runs about $3,734 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Florence County?
Florence County gets about 30.5" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4% of years.
How remote is Florence County?
A representative private-land location has about 971 people within a 30-minute drive and 257,008 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.
