Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin
56Index Score / 100 #58 of 72 in Wisconsin
A building permit is required for a new one- or two-family home in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, including a manufactured-home installation1. Fond du Lac County has no countywide zoning: each of its 21 towns, and each village and city, sets its own zoning and issues its own permits2. The county handles septic permits and reviews qualifying land divisions outside incorporated areas345.
At a glance
Building permit
Required for a new one- or two-family home, including a manufactured-home installation1
Zoning
Varies by town, village or city; county shoreland, floodplain and subdivision rules may also apply3
Septic
A county sanitary permit is required for new construction served by a newly built POWTS6
Owner-builder
Available to an owner who occupies or will occupy the home; other permits and code rules still apply7
RV or tiny home
No single countywide answer; ask the parcel's town, village or city3
Shoreland lots
Unsewered and sewered lots have different minimum area and width standards8
Shoreland setback
Generally 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark, subject to exceptions and averaging9
Private wells
Obtain a Well Construction Notification Number before most new well construction10
Comprehensive planning, farmland preservation, GIS parcel lookups, and confirming which of the 21 towns' zoning ordinance and building-permit issuer applies to a given parcel
Countywide shoreland and floodplain zoning, nonmetallic mining, junk-vehicle and other code-enforcement matters outside the 21 towns' own zoning ordinances
Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (POWTS/septic) permitting and required maintenance/pumping tracking under Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 383 and county ordinance
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Do you need a building permit in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin?
Yes. A UDC permit is required for a new one- or two-family dwelling in Fond du Lac County, including stick-built, modular and manufactured-home installations1. Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code governs one- and two-family homes, while the responsible permit authority may be the municipality or DSPS depending on delegated authority11. The Town of Fond du Lac separately requires a building permit before a covered building or structure is erected, reconstructed, altered, moved or enlarged12. Required new-home inspections include footings, foundation and reinforcement, rough work, insulation and final inspection; the applicant must notify the inspector shown on the permit13. An owner who occupies or will occupy the dwelling may use the owner-occupant route for construction and erosion-control permits, but that does not waive permits or code requirements7.
Who issues building permits in Fond du Lac County, and how do you reach them?
The correct permit counter depends on the parcel's municipality because zoning varies among Fond du Lac County's towns, villages and cities3. Start by identifying that municipality and its UDC inspection agency; where a municipality has delegated authority, apply locally, and otherwise DSPS handles the application1. Fond du Lac County Planning & Development can help with parcel mapping and local contacts at 160 S. Macy Street, Fond du Lac, or (920) 929-313814. County Code Enforcement handles county shoreland and floodplain questions at (920) 929-314015. Permit fees vary by municipality, and the state permit-seal fee for each new dwelling is $3016. In the Town of Fond du Lac, the written application goes to the Building Inspector, an approved permit must be displayed at the site, and the permit lasts 12 months unless substantial work begins17.
Does Fond du Lac County have zoning?
Fond du Lac County does not have countywide zoning: each of its 21 towns controls its own zoning ordinance and has its own permit issuer2. Villages and the City of Fond du Lac also control their own zoning, and the county's GIS zoning layer is for reference only, so get zoning documents from the town, village or city18. County shoreland, floodplain, subdivision and sanitary rules may still apply3. Because the county sets no general zoning, it sets no countywide minimum dwelling size or tiny-home zoning rule either, but town or municipal ordinances may, and building-code, septic and other requirements still apply1920. In the Town of Fond du Lac, zoning districts have their own use and dimensional rules, and the official zoning map is available for inspection at Town Hall21. That town's code regulates minimum lots, yards and setbacks, lot coverage, building height and structure size, but the extracted rules do not supply a single numeric standard for every district22232425. In unincorporated shoreland areas, lots without sewer generally need at least 20,000 square feet and 100 feet of average width, while sewered lots generally need at least 10,000 square feet and 65 feet of average width8. Shoreland structures generally sit at least 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark9.
How do septic permits work in Fond du Lac County?
Fond du Lac County is the sanitary-permit authority for private sewage systems, although a property served by public sewer may fall outside that requirement4. New construction served by a newly constructed POWTS needs a valid sanitary permit when the county land-use permit is issued, and other municipal, state or federal permits may also apply6. Contact the Fond du Lac County Code Enforcement Office's POWTS program at (920) 929-3139 before finalizing the building layout26. Wisconsin also requires inspection of POWTS construction and installation under the plan-review approval, with the permitting agency as the inspection contact27. Only about 25.3% of the county's mapped soils rate free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so septic feasibility deserves attention before purchase28. Buildings with plumbing but no public-sewer connection must still provide for wastewater treatment, recycling, dispersal or holding under Wisconsin POWTS rules29. Wisconsin DSPS says installed systems must be visually inspected at least once every three years30. Fond du Lac County also assesses $13 a year to property owners with a private onsite wastewater system, starting with the 2025 tax year31.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Fond du Lac County?
We could not confirm one rule allowing long-term RV living or tiny-home occupancy on every private parcel in Fond du Lac County, and the county itself does not zone for either one20. The county's own RV time limit applies only to its Columbia Park and Waupun County Park campgrounds, where no camping unit may stay more than 14 days in any four-week period32. The practical answer depends first on the parcel's town, village or city because local zoning varies across the county3. Ask the local zoning authority whether the proposed unit is a dwelling, a camping unit or an accessory structure, and ask what district, dimensional and occupancy rules apply. The Town of Fond du Lac, for example, uses district-specific rules and an official zoning map rather than one standard for every property21. A manufactured home used as a new dwelling is expressly within the state permit framework, but local land-use and sanitary requirements still apply1. Fond du Lac County Planning & Development can help identify the correct municipality, but the local zoning authority should give the parcel-specific answer14.
Building a home in Fond du Lac County: the steps, in order
Identify the parcel's town, village or city and confirm the zoning district, allowed use and dimensional standards with that municipality3.
If dividing land outside an incorporated area into a parcel of 35 acres or less, obtain Fond du Lac County Planning review and approval5.
Resolve county shoreland or floodplain conditions before fixing the building pad; prohibited work includes placing fill in a wetland or stream floodway33.
For a new POWTS, obtain the county sanitary permit alongside the county land-use permit6.
Obtain a Well Construction Notification Number before most new private-well construction10.
Submit the permit application, plans, required data and fee to the authority responsible for the parcel1.
Call the inspector for each required phase, and occupy the home only after a final inspection finds no major health or safety violations1334.
What should you check before buying land in Fond du Lac County?
Confirm the municipality and zoning district before making an offer because allowed uses and dimensional rules vary by town, village or city3. For unincorporated shoreland property, check lot area and width, the ordinary-high-water-mark setback and impervious coverage: coverage up to 15% is ordinarily allowed, while coverage above 15% and up to 30% requires mitigation8935. Check mapped floodplain conditions before selecting a building pad because floodway development is tightly limited and new structures, wells and sewage systems are prohibited in the floodway36. Test septic feasibility early because only about 25.3% of mapped soils lack severe limits for a conventional drain field28. Confirm access with the road authority; a driveway connection to a state highway requires a WisDOT permit37. For a private well, obtain the state notification number before most new construction10. A new private well that is not high-capacity needs advance notice to the Wisconsin DNR and a Well Construction Notification Number, with a $50.50 notification fee38.
Watch-outs
Do not apply Town of Fond du Lac zoning standards to land in another municipality; the county has no countywide zoning and each town, village and city sets its own2.
A qualifying land division outside an incorporated area needs county review when it creates land of 35 acres or less5.
New construction using a newly built POWTS needs a valid sanitary permit when the county land-use permit is issued6.
Shoreland property can face separate lot-size, setback and impervious-coverage standards even when local zoning also applies8935.
Written October 10, 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.
Fond du Lac County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score
How Fond du Lac County scores
Seclusion23100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency56100% ev.
Admin Boringness61100% ev.
Durability70100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost58100% 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 →
$297kTypical home
1.6%Property tax
$7,870Land / acre
33.1"Annual rain
1.5% of yrsSevere drought
1.2 / yr (+1.2)Mid-century 100°F days
13.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.7" (+7.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.68×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,119Home insurance / yr
1.9% / yrInsurance growth
0.84%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
104,340People within 30 min
4,325,743People within 2 hr
99,357Radius comparison (15 mi)
144.5People / sq mi
1.1%Federal land
93.6%Land at 15% slope or less
25.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Fond du Lac 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: Town of Alto · Town of Ashford · Town of Auburn · Town of Byron · Town of Calumet · Town of Eden · Village of Eden · Town of Eldorado · Town of Empire · Fond du Lac · Town of Fond du Lac · Town of Forest · Town of Friendship · Town of Lamartine · Town of Marshfield · Town of Metomen · Village of Mount Calvary · Village of North Fond du Lac · Town of Oakfield · Village of Oakfield · Town of Osceola · Ripon · Town of Ripon · Town of Rosendale · Village of Rosendale · Town of Springvale · Village of St. Cloud · Town of Taycheedah · Town of Waupun
Answers from the rulebook for Fond du Lac County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Fond du Lac County rules
County-wide zoningAbsent
General countywide zoning administered by Fond du Lac County.
The county states that its 21 towns control their own zoning ordinances and permit issuers.
County shoreland and floodplain overlay ordinances may still apply in their respective areas.
Municipal zoning rules may apply within incorporated municipalities.
“Fond du Lac County does not have county-wide zoning. Each of our 21 Towns control their own zoning ordinances and have their own permit issuers.”
Local zoningVaries (with conditions)
The countywide aggregate of zoning administered by towns, villages, and the City of Fond du Lac within Fond du Lac County.
The actual rule-maker is the applicable civil town, village, or city.
The county GIS zoning data is for reference only; zoning documentation must be obtained from the appropriate civil town, village, or city.
Specific zoning districts, permitted uses, setbacks, and other dimensional rules vary by local ordinance.
“The zoning layer depicts the zoning information for each civil town in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin as well as several of the villages and City of Fond du Lac. Each civil town/village/city in Fond du Lac County controls its own zoning.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate of township, village, and city zoning within Fond du Lac County; local zoning requirements vary by the applicable civil town, village, or city.
“Each civil town/village/city in Fond du Lac County controls its own zoning.”
Minimum dwelling sizeNone (with conditions)
Countywide general zoning minimum dwelling-size requirements in unincorporated Fond du Lac County, outside applicable county overlay districts.
The county expressly states that it does not have county-wide zoning.
Town or municipal ordinances may impose dwelling-size requirements.
County shoreland and floodplain overlay provisions, state building codes, sanitary requirements, and other non-zoning rules may still apply.
This is not a finding that no state or local building-code minimum exists.
“Fond du Lac County does not have county-wide zoning. Each of our 21 Towns control their own zoning ordinances and have their own permit issuers.”
Living in an RVLimited
RV occupancy at Columbia Park and Waupun County Park campgrounds administered by Fond du Lac County.
Camping is allowed only at designated campsites and approved overflow areas.
No person may camp and no camping unit may remain for more than 14 days in any four-week period during the camping season.
The camping season is determined at the department's discretion.
After the limit, the camping unit must be removed for at least seven days before return; extensions may be granted at the department's discretion.
Campsite occupancy is limited to not more than one RV, or one RV and one tent, or not more than three tents.
maximum stay: 14 days in any four-week period (Extensions may be granted for camping reservations at the discretion of the department or camp hosts.) · required removal period: 7 days
“No person shall camp and no camping unit shall remain in a campground for a period in excess of fourteen days in any four-week period during the camping season; the camping season is determined at the discretion of the department. Thereafter, the camping unit must be removed from the property for at least seven days before the camping party is eligible to return. Extensions may be granted for camping reservations at the discretion of the department or camp hosts.”
Tiny homesUnrestricted (with conditions)
County land-use zoning regulation of tiny-home occupancy in unincorporated Fond du Lac County, outside applicable county overlay districts.
The county states that it does not have county-wide zoning.
Town or municipal zoning may regulate the parcel.
County shoreland and floodplain overlay rules may apply.
Building-code, sanitary-sewer, POWTS, health, subdivision, and other applicable requirements still apply.
This claim does not establish that a tiny home is exempt from construction, occupancy, or septic permitting.
“Fond du Lac County does not have county-wide zoning. Each of our 21 Towns control their own zoning ordinances and have their own permit issuers.”
Who permits septicCounty
Private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Fond du Lac County.
The county ordinance concerns siting, construction, maintenance, and disposal of septage and sewage from POWTS.
The ordinance is administered through the Fond du Lac County Code Enforcement Department.
“This ordinance is administered through the Fond du Lac County Code Enforcement Department”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
County (with conditions) — Private sewage systems serving property in Fond du Lac County.
“Fond du Lac County Sanitary and Private Sewage System Ordinance”
Septic permitRequired
New construction in Fond du Lac County served by a newly constructed POWTS.
A valid sanitary permit must accompany issuance of the Fond du Lac County land-use permit.
Additional village, township, state, or federal permits may also be required.
“For new construction that is to be serviced by a newly constructed POWTS a valid sanitary permit is required at the same time to the issuance of a Fond du Lac County land use permit.”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Land divisions outside incorporated areas of Fond du Lac County.
Any land division 35 acres or less is required to be reviewed and approved.
The County Subdivision Ordinance is Chapter 48 of the Fond du Lac County Code.
The cited page states the authority applies outside incorporated areas.
land-division acreage threshold: <= 35 acres (The page specifically states the review requirement for land divisions 35 acres or less.)
“The County Planning Department is responsible for reviewing and approving all land divisions outside the incorporated areas within the County. Any land division 35 acres or less is required to be reviewed and approved.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Regulated (with conditions) — Land divisions outside incorporated areas of Fond du Lac County.
“Any land division 35 acres or less is required to be reviewed and approved.”
Building in a floodplainLimited
Development under Fond du Lac County land-use permitting in environmentally sensitive jurisdictions, including projects for which floodplain or shoreland conditions apply.
The permit is valid only for the stated project and one year.
Setback changes require prior approval from the Fond du Lac County Shoreland Zoning Board of Appeals or Code Enforcement Office.
A FEMA Post Construction Elevation Certificate must be completed when required.
The permit does not exempt village, township, state, or federal permits.
Placement of fill in wetlands or the floodway of any stream is prohibited.
Placement of fill within five feet of the shoreline of a navigable waterway is prohibited unless an approved stabilizing berm is constructed before fill placement.
Development causing runoff to adjacent properties is prohibited.
permit validity period: 1 year · shoreline fill buffer: < 5 feet (Prohibited unless an approved stabilizing berm is constructed prior to fill placement.)
“Placement of fill materials in wetlands or the floodway of any stream is prohibited.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Development subject to Fond du Lac County land-use permitting in environmentally sensitive areas, including floodplain-related projects.
“I further agree I will complete the FEMA Post Construction Elevation Certificate when required.”
Permit feesPublished (with conditions)
Fond du Lac County POWTS maintenance assessment applicable to property owners with a private onsite wastewater treatment system.
The assessment applies to property owners in Fond du Lac County with a POWTS.
The resolution states that the fee commences with the 2025 tax year.
This claim confirms publication of the POWTS fee only; the complete current fee schedules for land-use, building, sanitary, shoreland, floodplain, and subdivision permits were not fully verified from opened official documents.
annual POWTS maintenance assessment: 13 USD
“$13 be assessed to all property owners in Fond du Lac County with a POWTS, commencing with the 2025 tax year.”
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.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — New one- and two-family dwellings, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured-home installations, in Fond du Lac 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.”
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) — Construction and erosion-control permits for a dwelling occupied by the owner.
“or by the owner who occupies the home currently or will after completion.”
Available (with conditions) — An owner-occupant applying for a Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permit.
“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”
4 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted (with conditions) — One- and two-family dwelling construction in Fond du Lac 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 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.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — New one- and two-family dwellings in Fond du Lac 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 — Construction and inspection of new one- and two-family dwellings under Wisconsin UDC jurisdiction.
“Except as provided in Wis. Stat. secs. 101.651 (1) and (2m), cities, villages, and towns shall exercise jurisdiction over the construction and inspection of new one- and two-family dwellings provided the municipality complies with DSPS requirements.”
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.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Occupancy of a completed UDC-covered dwelling.
“Take occupancy after receiving a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found. (Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits.)”
Zoning districtsPartial
Statewide floodplain zoning guidance; the Wisconsin DNR publishes a model floodplain ordinance for communities but does not thereby establish every local zoning district.
The source describes a model ordinance that communities should use when amending, repealing, or recreating a floodplain ordinance.
The source does not provide a statewide inventory or complete publication of local zoning districts.
Local community adoption and local ordinance details remain necessary.
“This is the model version that should be used by any community amending or repealing and recreating a floodplain ordinance.”
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.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Specified — Unincorporated shoreland areas in Fond du Lac County subject to Wisconsin shoreland zoning standards.
“Shoreland zoning rules apply to unincorporated land that is: 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.”
SetbacksSpecified
Buildings and structures in unincorporated Wisconsin shoreland zoning areas measured from the ordinary high water mark.
The standard applies in the shoreland zone and is implemented through county shoreland zoning ordinances.
Exceptions include piers, boat-hoists, fishing rafts, utilities, walkways, stairways or rail systems, decks or gazebos complying with s. 59.692(1v), and boathouses.
If an existing pattern of development exists, counties may allow new homes closer than 75 feet through setback averaging.
Counties may adopt additional requirements.
minimum setback from ordinary high water mark: >= 75 feet (Listed structures and setback averaging exceptions.)
“All buildings and structures must be set back at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Specified — Structures in unincorporated shoreland areas in Fond du Lac County.
“All buildings and structures must be set back at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark. Exceptions to the 75-foot setback include piers, boat-hoists, fishing rafts, utilities, walkways, stairways or rail systems, decks or gazebos complying with s. 59.692(1v) and boathouses.”
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%.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Specified — Impervious surface coverage in unincorporated shoreland areas in Fond du Lac County.
“up to 15 percent of their lot in impervious surfaces”
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.”
Septic inspectionRequired
POWTS in Fond du Lac County, including construction and installation inspections and ongoing visual inspections under Wisconsin POWTS requirements.
Inspection of POWTS construction and installation is required in accordance with the plan review conditional approval letter.
Wisconsin DSPS states that systems must be visually inspected at least once every three years.
The three-year rule is an inspection requirement; pumping frequency may differ and is not categorically every three years.
For construction and installation, contact the agency that issued the POWTS permit.
visual inspection interval: 3 years
“Code only requires that systems be visually inspected at least once every three years.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — POWTS construction and installation subject to Wisconsin DSPS plan review.
“Inspection of POWTS construction and installation is required in accordance with the plan review conditional approval letter.”
Required — Privately owned wastewater treatment systems and septic systems statewide in Wisconsin.
“The code only requires that systems shall be visually inspected at least once every 3 years.”
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Sanitation for buildings with plumbing fixtures that are not connected to a public sewer in Wisconsin.
Off-grid wastewater handling must provide for treating, recycling, dispersing, or holding wastewater.
Private onsite wastewater treatment systems remain subject to Wisconsin POWTS requirements and applicable plan review or permits.
The rule does not establish unrestricted approval for any particular composting toilet, privy, holding tank, or other device.
“Where plumbing fixtures exist in a building that is not connected to a public sewer system, suitable provision shall be made for treating, recycling, dispersing or holding the wastewater.”
Well permitRequired
Construction of a new private well in Fond du Lac County that is not a high-capacity well.
The property owner must provide advance notice to the Wisconsin DNR before construction.
A Well Construction Notification Number must be obtained before constructing drilled or driven-point wells.
High-capacity wells, reconstruction of existing wells, and wells on Native American property are exceptions to the cited notification requirement.
For high-capacity wells or other wells requiring written DNR approval, the notification requirements in the approval apply.
The notification fee is $50.50; the notification number and fee are not refundable or transferable.
A Well Construction Report must be completed and submitted to DNR within 30 days after construction.
well construction notification fee: 50.5 USD (Heat Exchange Notification has no fee.) · 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”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Limited — Construction of private wells in Wisconsin, including Fond du Lac County.
“Obtain a Well Construction Notification Number prior to constructing a well. This applies to both drilled wells and driven point wells. For high capacity wells or other wells that require written DNR approval, follow the notification requirements in your approval.”
Limited — Construction of private wells statewide in Wisconsin.
“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.”
Mandatory utility hookupWater and sewer (with conditions)
Pre-installation water and sewer systems in a manufactured/mobile home park in Wisconsin.
Pre-installation plumbing-system plan review is required.
Submitted plans must comply with the Wisconsin Plumbing Code.
A conditional approval letter gives permission to start construction.
Local permitting requirements remain pending.
“Pre-installation plan review of the water and sewer systems in a manufactured/mobile home park is required as a plumbing system plan review via esla.wi.gov.”
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.”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
DNR construction-site stormwater permit coverage for construction projects disturbing one or more acres.
Submit a Notice of Intent at least 14 working days before construction.
Develop an erosion control and stormwater management plan.
Read the general permit, pay the applicable fee, implement best management practices, conduct weekly inspections, and file a Notice of Termination when complete.
Waterway and wetland permits may also be needed.
minimum disturbed area: >= 1 acre · NOI lead time: 14 working days before construction
“Submit the Notice of Intent (NOI) form to the DNR at least 14 working days before construction will begin. [...] Conduct weekly on-site inspections through the duration of the project. [...] File a Notice of Termination once the project is complete.”
3 more reviewed findings on this topic
Published (with conditions) — UDC permit applications for one- and two-family dwellings in Fond du Lac County.
“customers will have the opportunity to review their submission details prior to doing a final submission.”
Published (with conditions) — Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code permits for one- and two-family dwellings statewide.
“At least 2 sets of plans for all one- and 2-family dwellings shall be submitted”
Published (with conditions) — Construction of a new private well in Wisconsin that is not a high capacity well.
“Obtain a Well Construction Notification Number prior to constructing a well. This applies to both drilled wells and driven point wells. [...] A Well Construction Report must be completed and submitted to DNR within 30 days of well or drillhole construction.”
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.”
Inside cities and towns in Fond du Lac County
Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.
Building permitRequired
Buildings and structures in the Town of Fond du Lac.
The permit requirement is subject to the Town of Fond du Lac zoning code and applicable state laws.
The ordinance contains exceptions for signs exempt from the zoning code.
“No structure (except signs exempt from the provisions of this Zoning Code defined in section 13-1-2(b)(40) and no building shall be erected, constructed, reconstructed, altered, moved or enlarged until a building permit has been obtained from the Building Inspector.”
InspectionsLimited
Enforcement inspections under the Town of Fond du Lac zoning code.
The cited inspection authority concerns compliance with the Town zoning code; it does not establish every state building-code inspection requirement.
“Conduct inspections to determine compliance or noncompliance with the provisions of this Zoning Code;”
Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)
Zoning districts in the Town of Fond du Lac.
The official zoning map accompanies the code and is available for public inspection at Town Hall.
District-specific use and dimensional rules apply.
“The Official Zoning Map with all notations, dimensions, designations, references and other data shall accompany and be part of this Zoning Code. Amendments to the Official Zoning Map shall be approved by the Town Board and shall promptly be portrayed on the Official Zoning Map. The Map shall be available for public inspection in the Town Hall.”
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Lots and yards governed by the Town of Fond du Lac zoning code.
The ordinance refers to district-specific minimum requirements; numeric schedules were not separately extracted.
Nonconforming lots of record may qualify for exceptions subject to the ordinance.
“Lots or yards created after the effective date of adoption of this Zoning Code shall meet the minimum requirements established by this Code;”
SetbacksSpecified
Yards and open spaces under the Town of Fond du Lac zoning code.
Requirements vary by zoning district and applicable ordinance provisions.
“The size of yards, courts and other open spaces;”
Lot coverageSpecified
Lot coverage under the Town of Fond du Lac zoning code.
Requirements vary by zoning district and applicable ordinance provisions.
“The percentage of lot that may be occupied;”
Building heightSpecified
Building height, stories, and structure size under the Town of Fond du Lac zoning code.
Requirements vary by zoning district and applicable ordinance provisions.
“The regulation and restriction of the height, number of stories and size of buildings and other structures;”
Permit feesVariable (with conditions)
Building permits administered under the Town of Auburn zoning ordinance.
A building permit is required before a structure or building is erected, constructed, reconstructed, altered, moved, or enlarged, subject to listed exceptions.
Permit fees are determined from time to time by the Town Board and set forth on a schedule of fees.
A double fee may be charged if work is started before a permit is applied for and issued.
The double fee does not release the applicant from compliance or prosecution for violation.
unpermitted-work fee multiplier: 2 times applicable fee (may be charged if work starts before a permit is applied for and issued)
“Fees for all permits shall be determined from time to time by the Town Board and set forth on a schedule of fees.”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
Building-permit application and issuance under the Town of Fond du Lac zoning code.
Applications must be in writing on a form furnished by the Building Inspector.
The application must include owner, proposed-use, site-layout, lot, open-space, yard, parking, sign, and other information required by the code.
Approved permits must be displayed at the site.
Permits are valid for twelve months from issuance and lapse if substantial work has not begun.
permit validity period: 12 months (The ordinance provides factors for determining substantial work and allows appeal to the Board of Appeals.)
“Application for a building permit shall be made in writing upon a form furnished by the Building Inspector and shall include the following information:”
Set by your township or city, not the county
In Wisconsin, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Fond du Lac 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.
Camping on your land
Accessory dwellings
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 Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin
Is Fond du Lac County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Fond du Lac County scores 56/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: 26 operating mines and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: about 104,340 people within a 30-minute drive.
Do you need a building permit in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin?
Fond du Lac County generally requires a residential building permit, and it has no county-wide zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Fond du Lac County Land Information Department, Code Enforcement Office. 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 Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin?
Land in Fond du Lac County runs about $7,870 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Fond du Lac County?
Fond du Lac County gets about 33.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.5% of years.
How remote is Fond du Lac County?
A representative private-land location has about 104,340 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,325,743 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.
