Bolthole Index

Forest County, Wisconsin

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Forest County, Wisconsin

71Index Score / 100
#32 of 72 in Wisconsin

A UDC building permit is required for a new one- or two-family home in Forest County, Wisconsin, including a stick-built, modular or manufactured home1. The county's General Zoning Ordinance divides unincorporated land into districts and requires a land use permit before new development, while sanitary permits for private septic systems come from Forest County Zoning Sanitary and must be issued before any local permit23.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for a new one- or two-family dwelling1
Zoning
County zoning ordinance covers unincorporated land; a land use permit is required before new development24
Septic
County sanitary permit, installation oversight and recurring inspection567
RV living
Not confirmed for private land; ask county zoning and the applicable town28
Tiny home
Local occupancy and dimensional rules are not confirmed; ask county zoning and the town28
Owner-builder
An owner-occupant may apply for UDC construction and erosion-control permits without Dwelling Contractor Certification910
Private well
Advance DNR notification is required for a new non-high-capacity well, subject to listed exceptions11

Who to call

Building permits

Forest County Zoning Land Use Department

Land-use permits and approvals; the county page also directs applicants to its UDC inspector

715-478-3893

fczone@co.forest.wi.us

200 E. Madison St. Crandon, Wisconsin 54520 Room 103 & 105

Online permits →

Zoning

Forest County Zoning Land Use Department

Land-use permits, zoning administration, floodplain administration and subdivision administration

715-478-3893

fczone@co.forest.wi.us

200 E. Madison St. Crandon, Wisconsin 54520 Room 103 & 105

Online permits →

Septic permits

Forest County Zoning Sanitary

Sanitary permits, POWTS installation oversight, soil-test review and sanitary-system inspections

715-478-3893

fczone@co.forest.wi.us

200 East Madison Street Crandon, Wisconsin 54520 Room 103 & 105

Online permits →

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 9, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Forest County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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Do you need a building permit in Forest County, Wisconsin?

Yes. A new one- or two-family dwelling in Forest County needs a UDC permit, including a stick-built, modular or manufactured-home installation.1 Wisconsin's UDC program supplies the construction standards and inspection procedures for those dwellings.12 Permit requirements for additions and alterations vary by municipality, so confirm the scope before ordering materials.13

Required inspections for a new dwelling include footings, foundation and reinforcement, rough work, insulation and final inspection; notify the inspector named on the UDC permit when each stage is ready.14 After the final inspection finds no major health or safety violations, the dwelling may be occupied; some municipalities also issue an occupancy permit.15

Who issues building permits in Forest County, Wisconsin?

Start with the Forest County Zoning Land Use Department for land use permits and zoning approvals; its official page also links applicants to the UDC inspector and an online permitting system.16 The office is at the Forest County Courthouse in Crandon and can be reached by phone or email using the contact card above.16

The UDC issuer depends on jurisdiction: apply through a municipality with delegated authority, or through Wisconsin DSPS where the municipality lacks that authority.1 A complete application includes the permit application, contractor-license information, legible plans, required data and the permit fee.17 Forest County publishes a fee-schedule update for county land-use permits, but the available material does not state the amounts; ask the county office for the current charge while confirming the separate UDC fee with the issuing authority.1816

Does Forest County, Wisconsin have zoning?

Yes. Forest County's General Zoning Ordinance covers the unincorporated areas of the county, regulates land uses and structures by district, and requires a land use permit before new development or a change in use unless specifically exempted24. The Forest County Zoning Land Use Department enforces the zoning ordinance, administers the floodplain and subdivision ordinances, and holds the official zoning map, which is the final word on a parcel's district194. Wisconsin lets a town outside county zoning have its own ordinance or none, so confirm with the town as well8.

Dimensions depend on the district. Principal and habitable structures on unsewered Residential, Recreational Residential and Mixed Use lots wider than 50 feet sit 15 feet from lot lines, and accessory structures 7.5 feet20. Minimum lots are 2 acres in Recreational Residential and Mixed Use and 10 acres in Forestry or Agricultural21. Near navigable water, shoreland rules set buildings at least 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark, with a reduction that cannot go below 35 feet where neighbors are closer22. Shoreland land is regulated separately from the other districts4. The county office also offers on-site consultation on shoreland vegetation19.

How do septic permits work in Forest County, Wisconsin?

Forest County Zoning Sanitary issues sanitary permits, oversees private onsite wastewater treatment system installations, reviews soil tests and inspects installations.5623 A building using private sewage must have its sanitary permit before any local permit is issued, and applicable system plans need approval before installation, replacement or addition of treatment, holding or dispersal components.3

Plan for the soil evaluation early: the soil dataset rates 0% of Forest County soils as free of severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, which makes parcel-level testing especially important and may point toward a nonconventional design.24 Forest County administers the state's inspection requirement for all sanitary systems every 3 years.7 An off-grid building with plumbing still needs suitable wastewater treatment, recycling, dispersal or holding rather than an assumed sanitation exemption.25

Can you live in an RV or tiny home in Forest County, Wisconsin?

Forest County's rules for living in an RV on private land, temporary camping and tiny-home occupancy could not be confirmed. The Recreational Residential district lists recreational uses such as short-term rental among its permitted uses, but that does not settle year-round RV living.21 Ask the Forest County Zoning Land Use Department and the parcel's town before buying or moving a unit onto the land, because rules differ by zoning district and a town may have its own zoning.1928

Do not use Wisconsin State Park camping rules as the answer for private property; those rules govern state-park campsites.26 A manufactured home has a clearer statewide path: Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code covers installation of manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007, while local zoning and sanitary requirements still apply.27

How do you build a home in Forest County, step by step?

  1. Ask Forest County Zoning Land Use for the parcel's district, setbacks, minimum lot size and floodplain status, and apply for the land use permit required before new development.220 Check with the town too in case it has its own zoning.8
  2. Arrange the soil evaluation and obtain the Forest County sanitary permit before any local permit if the home will use a private sewage system.3
  3. Identify whether the municipality or Wisconsin DSPS has UDC authority, then submit the application, contractor-license information, legible plans, required data and fee to that issuer.117
  4. Begin construction only after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted.13
  5. Notify the inspector named on the UDC permit for the required footing, foundation, rough-work, insulation and final inspections.14

What should you check before buying land in Forest County?

Check the parcel's zoning district with the county and the town, then confirm septic feasibility, floodplain limits, road access and well requirements before treating a parcel as buildable.8 Forest County's conventional drain-field soil rating is 0% without severe limitations, so make an accepted soil evaluation a purchase contingency rather than assuming a standard system will fit.24

A new private well requires a Well Construction Notification Number before construction, with exceptions for high-capacity wells, reconstruction and wells on Native American property.2811 A driveway connecting to a state highway requires a WisDOT connection permit.29 Floodway development sharply limits new structures, wells and sewage systems, while floodfringe construction has elevation and dry-access requirements.30 Forest County's median property-tax bill is $1,988 per year, but a parcel's actual assessment and bill can differ.31

Watch-outs

  • A Forest County sanitary permit must be obtained before any local permit is issued for a building that will use a private sewage system.3
  • Forest County zoning covers unincorporated land by district, but a town may have its own rules, so verify the parcel's district and the town's role28.
  • Notify the inspector named on the UDC permit when each required inspection stage is ready.14
  • Forest County's private-land rules for RV occupancy, temporary camping and tiny homes could not be confirmed; ask county zoning and the applicable town before committing to that use.198

Sources

  1. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  2. Forest County General Zoning Ordinance, revised 2023, quoted and re-checked
  3. Requirement for Plan Review Prior to Issuing Local Permits, quoted and re-checked
  4. Forest County General Zoning Ordinance rev. 2023, quoted and re-checked
  5. Zoning Sanitary Depart, quoted and re-checked
  6. Zoning Sanitary, quoted and re-checked
  7. Zoning Sanitary, quoted and re-checked
  8. Local Land Use Regulations and Comprehensive Planning Status Inventory Project (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  9. Instructions for Submitting a UDC Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  10. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  11. Well and heat exchange notification (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  12. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  13. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  15. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  16. Forest County Zoning Land Use Department (co.forest.wi.gov)
  17. Zoning Land Use Department, quoted and re-checked
  18. Land Use, quoted and re-checked
  19. Forest County Zoning Land Use Department (co.forest.wi.gov)
  20. Forest County General Zoning Ordinance rev. 2023, quoted and re-checked
  21. Forest County General Zoning Ordinance, revised 2023, quoted and re-checked
  22. Shoreland Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  23. Forest County Zoning Sanitary (co.forest.wi.gov)
  24. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  25. Wisconsin Administrative Code, SPS 382 (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. Camping Rules — Wisconsin State Park System (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Well and heat exchange notification, quoted and re-checked
  29. State highway connection permits (driveways & more) (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Floodplain Development Basics (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

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.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Forest County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleForest CountyFlorence CountyOneida CountyVilas CountyLanglade CountyMarinette CountyLincoln County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Zoning & Sanitary Dept.County Zoning & PlanningCounty Planning & Zoning Dept.County Zoning & PlanningCounty Land Records & Regulations Dept.County Land InformationCounty Land Services

County locator

Forest County in Wisconsin

71
County map
Forest County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score

How Forest County scores

Seclusion91100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency48100% ev.
Admin Boringness46100% ev.
Durability55100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost70100% 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 →

$225kTypical home
1.2%Property tax
$4,747Land / acre
32.6"Annual rain
3% of yrsSevere drought
0.3 / yr (+0.3)Mid-century 100°F days
11.7 daysMid-century dry spell
1.45" (+11.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.61×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$974Home insurance / yr
0.4% / yrInsurance growth
0.85%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
557People within 30 min
223,836People within 2 hr
8,815Radius comparison (15 mi)
9.2People / sq mi
53.3%Federal land
88.4%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
91.2%Wooded land
47.2 tonsBiomass / forest ac
40.4°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Forest 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 Alvin · Town of Argonne · Town of Armstrong Creek · Town of Blackwell · Town of Caswell · Crandon · Town of Crandon · Town of Freedom · Town of Hiles · Town of Laona · Town of Lincoln · Town of Nashville · Town of Popple River · Town of Ross · Town of Wabeno

Answers from the rulebook for Forest County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Forest County rules

  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Land within Forest County subject to the Forest County General Zoning Ordinance, with shoreland areas governed under separate shoreland zoning provisions.

    • The ordinance states that all land other than land designated as shoreland is categorized into county zoning districts.
    • Structures and land uses must conform to the regulations for the district in which they are located.
    • The official zoning database and map in the Zoning Office are the final authority for current zoning status.
    “All land, other than those designated as shoreland, in Forest County, are hereby categorized into the following districts.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Land and structures in Forest County's unincorporated areas, subject to the applicable zoning district and official zoning map/database.
      “all of the unincorporated areas of the county”
  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County-administered zoning and land-use regulation in Forest County.

    • The county page does not establish that the county administers zoning ordinances for incorporated municipalities or towns within Forest County.
    • Municipality- or town-specific zoning coverage was not established by the cited source.
    “Enforce land use regulations (Zoning Ordinance)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present — County-administered zoning and land-use regulation in Forest County.
      “Enforce land use regulations (Zoning Ordinance)”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots in Forest County's non-shoreland zoning districts.

    • Recreational Residential requires 2 acres.
    • Commercial requires 5,000 square feet with public sewer and 2 acres without public sewer.
    • Industrial lots in a town-provided industrial park have a negotiable minimum; otherwise 20 acres is required.
    • Forestry or Agricultural requires 10 acres.
    • Mixed Use requires 2 acres, but a larger lot may be required through the conditional-use process.
    • Government/Public, Institutional has no minimum lot size requirement in the quoted district description.

    Recreational Residential minimum lot size: 2 acres · Commercial minimum lot size with public sewer: 5000 square feet · Commercial minimum lot size without public sewer: 2 acres · Industrial minimum lot size outside a town-provided industrial park: 20 acres (Negotiable if located in an industrial park provided by the town) · Forestry or Agricultural minimum lot size: 10 acres · Mixed Use minimum lot size: 2 acres (A larger lot size may be required through the conditional use process)

    “Recreational Residential (RR) This district is comprised of land that utilizes POWTS (private onsite waste treatment system) as a sanitary system or a municipal sanitary system is provided. This district, in addition to residential uses, has permitted recreational uses such as short-term rental (less than 7 days), recreational vehicle, and motor home and camper placements. Minimum lot size is 2 acres. Commercial (C) This designation relates to the buying and selling of goods and services. There are patrons on premise and the business may or may not be serviced by a municipal sanitary sewer or POWTS. Minimum lot size of 5,000 sq. feet with public sewer and 2 acres without.”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Buildings and structures in Forest County shoreland areas, including shoreland residential, recreational residential, commercial, industrial, forestry/agricultural, mixed-use, government/public/institutional, and wetland districts.

    • The standard shoreland setback is 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark unless an exemption under Section 9.3 or a reduction under Section 9.4 applies.
    • Section 9.3 exempts specified structures, including qualifying boathouses, open-sided or screened structures meeting the stated statutory and ordinance conditions, fishing rafts, specified signal receivers, qualifying utility structures, walkways, runoff-treatment devices, qualifying fences, and permitted bridges.
    • A reduced principal-structure setback may apply where adjacent principal structures within 250 feet are set back less than 75 feet; the resulting setback cannot be less than 35 feet.
    • Side-lot setbacks differ by shoreland district and by whether municipal sanitary sewer or POWTS is used.

    shoreland setback from ordinary high-water mark for buildings and structures: 75 feet (unless exempt under Section 9.3 or reduced under Section 9.4) · shoreland lot with municipal sanitary sewer, primary structure side setback: 7.5 feet · shoreland lot with municipal sanitary sewer, accessory structure side setback: 5 feet · shoreland residential or recreational residential lot with POWTS, primary structure side setback: 15 feet · shoreland residential or recreational residential lot with POWTS, accessory structure side setback: 7.5 feet · shoreland commercial side setback with municipal sewer: 6 feet · shoreland commercial side setback without municipal sewer: 15 feet · shoreland industrial side setback with municipal sewer: 25 feet · shoreland industrial side setback without municipal sewer: 50 feet

    “A setback of 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • District specific (with conditions) — Principal, habitable, and accessory structures in Forest County zoning districts under Section 2.10 of the General Zoning Ordinance.
      “Principle and Habitable Structures: 10 feet from lot lines Accessory Structures: 7.5 feet from lot lines”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Private onsite wastewater treatment systems in areas of Forest County not served by approved public sewer.

    • The Forest County Zoning Department administers the county sanitary ordinance and state standards.
    “Issue permits and oversee the installation of private owner waste treatment systems (POWTS)”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County — Private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Forest County.
      “Issue permits and oversee the installation of private owner waste treatment systems (POWTS)”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Forest County.

    • Forest County oversees installation of POWTS.
    • The county administers its sanitary ordinance to State standards.
    “Issue permits and oversee the installation of private owner waste treatment systems (POWTS)”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    All sanitary systems in Forest County.

    • Forest County administers the State's three-year inspection requirements.
    • The department's stated duties include inspecting installations and overseeing sanitary inspection programs.

    inspection interval: per 3 years

    “Administer the State's 3-year inspection requirements on all sanitary systems.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Sanitary systems and POWTS in Forest County.
      “Administer the State's 3-year inspection requirements on all sanitary systems.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    County land-use permit fees in Forest County.

    • The official Land Use page links a 2026 Fee Schedule Changes document; the fee amounts and effective date were not available in opened text.
    “2026 Fee Schedule Changes 3-Year Septic Inspection FAQ Certified Soil Testers Checklist for Soil Testers”
  • Permit processPartial

    Forest County zoning online application and permit process.

    • County page says online applications and permits require account creation and login using an email address; phone-number login and registration link were not working at retrieval.
    “Zoning Online Applications and Permits Account creation and login. Please Note at this time, you must log in using an email address.”

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
  • 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
    • Conditional — An owner-occupant applying for Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permits without Dwelling Contractor Certification.
      “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”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Wisconsin one- and two-family dwelling units, including manufactured homes.
      “The program governing one- and two-family dwelling units (including manufactured homes) is also called the UDC program, referring to the Uniform Dwelling Code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings, including manufactured homes, in Forest 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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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 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 — Construction of private wells in Forest County.
      “Obtain a Well Construction Notification Number prior to constructing a well. This applies to both drilled wells and driven point wells.”
  • 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.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Statewide subdivision plat review under Chapter 236 of the Wisconsin Statutes, administered through applicable political subdivisions and their plat-review processes.

    • 2025 Wisconsin Act 68 amended and created multiple laws in Chapter 236 concerning pre-submission review, preliminary plans, public improvements, and recording plats.
    • Act 68 is effective July 1, 2026.
    • Local subdivision ordinances and applicable political subdivisions remain part of the plat-review process.

    effective date of 2025 Wisconsin Act 68: 2026-07-01

    “Act 68 amended and created multiple laws in Ch. 236, Wis. Stats., for the plat review process.”
  • 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.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Development in Wisconsin floodplains, including floodway and floodfringe areas.

    • Floodplain development typically requires a land use permit and a building permit.
    • In the floodway, new structures, substantially improved or damaged structures, hazardous or solid-waste storage, and wells or sewage systems are prohibited.
    • Floodway development is limited to open-space uses with low flood-damage potential unless the stated analysis or FEMA map-revision condition is met.
    • Floodfringe structures must have the first floor elevated two feet above base flood elevation and have dryland access.
    • Substantially damaged structures are subject to the stated 50-percent threshold and applicable elevation or relocation requirements.

    floodfringe first-floor elevation: >= 2 feet above base flood elevation (for all new and substantially damaged or improved structures in the floodfringe)

    “In the floodway, new structures, substantially improved or damaged structures, the storage of hazardous/solid waste and wells/sewage systems are prohibited.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Development within floodplain areas regulated by a Wisconsin community floodplain zoning ordinance based on the DNR model and state minimum standards.
      “A land use permit shall be obtained before any development; repair, modification, or addition to an existing structure; or change in the use of a building or structure, including sewer and water facilities, may be initiated.”
  • 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 Forest 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

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 Forest County, Wisconsin

Is Forest County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Forest County scores 71/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: deep seclusion — about 557 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost.

Do you need a building permit in Forest County, Wisconsin?

Forest County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Forest County Zoning & Sanitary Department. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Forest County, Wisconsin?

Land in Forest County runs about $4,747 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Forest County?

Forest County gets about 32.6" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3% of years.

How remote is Forest County?

A representative private-land location has about 557 people within a 30-minute drive and 223,836 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.

How Forest compares in Wisconsin

Compare side-by-side →See all 72 Wisconsin counties ranked →