Bolthole Index

Grant County, Wisconsin

Building permits, zoning and septic rules in Grant County, Wisconsin

79Index Score / 100
#2 of 72 in Wisconsin

A new one- or two-family home in unincorporated Grant County, Wisconsin needs a Uniform Dwelling Code building permit from the municipal, county or state inspector for the parcel1. County zoning covers 18 listed towns, while other towns and cities, such as Lancaster, set their own234. Grant County issues septic permits countywide, and the sanitary permit comes before the zoning permit56.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for new homes; the issuing authority depends on the municipality1
Zoning
County zoning applies in 18 listed towns; Lancaster, Platteville and some other towns and cities zone for themselves273
Septic
Grant County administers POWTS permits and requires licensed inspection or pumping every 3 years58
Owner-builder allowance
An owner who occupies or will occupy the home may pull the construction and erosion-control permits, but permits and UDC compliance are still required9
RV / camping on raw land
Planned campgrounds under county zoning are seasonal and capped at 30 days per trailer or campsite; one RV on a private parcel is unconfirmed10
Minimum home size
District-specific; a dwelling under 800 sq ft in Agricultural A-1 requires a conditional-use permit1112
Minimum lot size
Unsewered subdivision lots need at least 20,000 sq ft and 100 ft of width; unincorporated shoreland lots need 10,000 sq ft if sewered1314
Septic soil difficulty
Only 2.8% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field15

Who to call

Building permits

Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department

Uniform Dwelling Code building permits (new one- and two-family dwellings), issued after zoning and sanitary permit numbers are on file

(608) 723-6080

150 W Alona Lane, Lancaster, WI 53813

Zoning

Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department

Zoning permits, shoreland and floodplain permit applications, and the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for the 18 towns under county zoning

(608) 723-6080

150 W Alona Lane, Lancaster, WI 53813

Septic permits

Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department

Sanitary (POWTS/septic) permit applications, soil evaluation reports, and the 3-year POWTS maintenance program for Grant County

(608) 723-6080

150 W Alona Lane, Lancaster, WI 53813

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 15, 2026.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Grant 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 Grant County, Wisconsin?

Grant County, Wisconsin requires a Uniform Dwelling Code building permit for a new one- or two-family home, including seasonal and recreational dwellings1. Detached garages and accessory buildings are outside the UDC's coverage, but county zoning requirements may still apply116. The issuing authority may be a delegated municipality, a delegated county or the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services, so confirm the building inspector for the parcel before applying17. Permit requirements for additions and alterations vary by municipality18. Call for building inspections before covering each construction phase; the inspector has two business days after the request and readiness of the work before covering may proceed under the stated conditions19. Occupancy follows a final inspection finding no major health or safety violations20. An owner who occupies or will occupy the home may obtain the construction and erosion-control permits, but that allowance does not waive the building permit or code compliance9.

Who issues building permits in Grant County, Wisconsin?

The building inspector for the parcel issues the Uniform Dwelling Code building permit; Wisconsin assigns that role to a delegated municipality, a delegated county or the state depending on jurisdiction17. Inside Lancaster, the city's own building inspector issues building permits21. For land outside city limits, Grant County's Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department is the local contact at 150 W Alona Lane in Lancaster, phone (608) 723-608022. For a home with internal plumbing in county zoning jurisdiction, Grant County issues the sanitary permit first and the zoning permit second; the building inspector then uses both permit numbers for the building permit6. Even where a city, village or town handles the building permit or zoning approval, Grant County still administers the septic permit throughout the county5. County zoning fees use estimated project value, with a $100 minimum and a higher rate at $300,00023.

Does Grant County have zoning?

Grant County administers comprehensive zoning in listed unincorporated towns, with exclusions for land under a municipality's extraterritorial zoning2425. The county list names Boscobel, Clifton, Ellenboro, Fennimore, Harrison, Hickory Grove, Jamestown, Liberty, Lima, Millville, Mt. Hope, Mt. Ida, Muscoda, Paris, Potosi, South Lancaster, Watterstown and Wingville2. Elsewhere, local zoning varies: Lancaster zones inside the city4, and the City of Platteville administers zoning within the city and, with the Town of Platteville, in its surrounding extraterritorial area7. Beetown and Bloomington list interim zoning ordinances; the Town of Bloomington's is dated June 8, 2026, and we could not confirm its coverage, so ask each town2627. Grant County still administers septic permits countywide5. Ask the county zoning office to identify the parcel's authority and mapped district; shoreland and floodplain rules may apply separately32829. Lot dimensions, dwelling size, height and setbacks vary by district30123132. Where a land division is a subdivision in unincorporated areas, lots without public sewer must be at least 20,000 square feet and 100 feet wide, and lots outside shoreland with public sewer at least 8,000 square feet and 70 feet wide1333. Farmland Preservation allows listed agricultural uses without a conditional-use permit, but keeps agricultural-district setbacks and other requirements3435. The 30% coverage cap applies to planned commercial and industrial development, not every residential lot3637.

How do septic permits work in Grant County?

Wisconsin regulates private onsite wastewater treatment systems, while Grant County administers local sanitary permits and maintenance385. A POWTS permit must be issued before installation, and a Wisconsin-licensed Master Plumber or Master Restricted Sewer Plumber must install the system39. Grant County must inspect an installation, replacement, modification, reconnection, or removal before the system generally enters service40. Existing systems outside public-sewer service require licensed inspection or pumping every 3 years, followed by certification to the county and the maintenance fee8. Permit fees are $400 for listed systems under 1,000 gallons per day and $500 for systems over that design flow39. Only 2.8% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the soil evaluation an early purchase contingency15. Non-plumbing sanitation systems and vaulted privies remain permit matters rather than automatic off-grid exceptions41.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Grant County?

In unincorporated Grant County under county zoning, planned trailer parks and campgrounds require planned-development approval, may operate only in Conservancy-Forestry-Recreation, Shoreland and Flood Plain districts, and allow seasonal use of no more than 30 days per trailer or campsite10. Planned campgrounds require at least 10 acres and allow at most 10 units per gross usable acre42. We could not confirm temporary construction use or year-round occupancy of one RV on an ordinary private parcel in Grant County; ask the zoning office about the address and proposed duration29. A dwelling under 800 square feet in county-zoned Agricultural A-1 requires a conditional-use permit and remains subject to dimensional, setback and sanitation rules11. County-zoned R-1 prohibits a separate dwelling in an accessory structure, and that restriction carries into R-2 and R-34344. A manufactured home under county zoning needs zoning approval, valid manufacturer's certification and generally at least 24 feet of width; a single unit on an operating farm is exempt from the width rule only, with other zoning, sanitary and building rules still applying4546.

Building a home in Grant County: the steps, in order

  1. Confirm which county, town, municipal or extraterritorial zoning authority governs the parcel and identify its mapped district328.
  2. If the home will use septic, obtain the soil evaluation and Grant County sanitary permit before seeking county zoning approval4739.
  3. Apply to the governing zoning authority for zoning approval, including any required shoreland or floodplain application; the county process requires a plot plan and fee623.
  4. Obtain the town driveway permit and resolve road-class access and setback standards4832. A state-highway connection separately requires a WisDOT driveway permit49.
  5. Apply to the responsible municipal, county or state inspector for the Uniform Dwelling Code building permit17.
  6. Call for each building inspection before covering work and obtain the final inspection before occupancy1920.
  7. Schedule Grant County's septic installation inspection before placing the POWTS into service40.

What to check before you buy land in Grant County

A new private well that is not high-capacity requires a Wisconsin DNR Well Construction Notification Number before construction50. We could not confirm an additional Grant County well permit or a countywide public-water or sewer connection mandate; ask Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning about the parcel47. Confirm the zoning authority, mapped district, lot dimensions and allowed use because zoning varies across Grant County328. Check front, side, rear and highway setbacks before choosing a building site32. In unincorporated shoreland, structures generally need a 75-foot setback from the ordinary high-water mark, structures within that band are capped at 35 feet, and impervious coverage generally starts at a 15% limit515253. A mapped floodplain requires a floodplain application before construction54. Confirm legal access and the town driveway permit before purchase48. Typical property tax is about 1.4%, with a median annual bill near $2,6835556.

Watch-outs

  • The county's 2021 map identifies unzoned townships, but Beetown and Bloomington now list interim zoning ordinances; confirm current parcel coverage with the county zoning office and the respective town57262729.
  • The confirmed 30-day RV limit applies to planned campgrounds; we could not confirm the rule for one RV on an ordinary private parcel, so ask the zoning office before occupancy1029.
  • A small dwelling has district-specific rules: one under 800 square feet in Agricultural A-1 requires a conditional-use permit, while accessory dwellings are prohibited in county-zoned R-1, R-2, and R-3 districts1144.

Sources

  1. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  2. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  3. Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning – Grant County, quoted and re-checked
  4. Lancaster: Article III Zoning Districts (Grant County), quoted and re-checked
  5. Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning – Grant County, quoted and re-checked
  6. Zoning Permit Application Process, quoted and re-checked
  7. Development Ordinances and Maps, quoted and re-checked
  8. Three Year Maintenance Requirement, quoted and re-checked
  9. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  10. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  12. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  13. Article IV: Design Standards – Grant County, WI, quoted and re-checked
  14. Grant County Shoreland Protection Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  15. 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
  16. Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  17. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings) (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  19. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  20. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  21. Lancaster: Chapter 172 Building Construction (Grant County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department (gcinternetwebsite.co.grant.wi.gov)
  23. Zoning Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  24. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  25. Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning – Grant County, quoted and re-checked
  26. Ordinances & Resolutions – Town of Beetown, quoted and re-checked
  27. Town of Bloomington Ordinances, quoted and re-checked
  28. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  29. Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department (gcinternetwebsite.co.grant.wi.gov)
  30. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  31. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  32. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  33. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  34. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  35. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  36. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  37. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  38. Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS), quoted and re-checked
  39. Sanitary Permit Application Process, quoted and re-checked
  40. Grant County Code Chapter 225, Article V: Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  41. Grant County Sanitary Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  42. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  43. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  44. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  45. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  46. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  47. Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department (gcinternetwebsite.co.grant.wi.gov)
  48. Zoning Permit Application Process, quoted and re-checked
  49. State highway connection permits (driveways & more) (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  50. Well and heat exchange notification (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  51. Grant County Shoreland Protection Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  52. Grant County Shoreland Protection Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  53. Grant County Shoreland Protection Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  54. Zoning Permit Application Process, quoted and re-checked
  55. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  56. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  57. Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning, quoted and re-checked

Written October 15, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleGrant CountyCrawford CountyIowa CountyLafayette CountyRichland CountyVernon CountyGreen County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsCounty ConservationCounty Land ConservationCounty Office of Planning & DevelopmentCounty Land ConservationCounty Zoning & Sanitation Dept.County Zoning & Sanitarian Dept.County Land Use & Zoning Dept.

County locator

Grant County in Wisconsin

79
County map
Grant County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score

How Grant County scores

Seclusion76100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency66100% ev.
Admin Boringness46100% ev.
Durability72100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost65100% 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 →

$230kTypical home
1.4%Property tax
$6,306Land / acre
37.9"Annual rain
5.2% of yrsSevere drought
2.4 / yr (+2.3)Mid-century 100°F days
14.6 daysMid-century dry spell
1.81" (+8.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.74×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,229Home insurance / yr
3.4% / yrInsurance growth
0.57%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
4,882People within 30 min
930,724People within 2 hr
23,769Radius comparison (15 mi)
44.8People / sq mi
2%Federal land
62.8%Land at 15% slope or less
2.8%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
19,567 acWorkable land screen
28.6%Wooded land
49.7 tonsBiomass / forest ac
47.1°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Grant 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: Village of Bagley · Town of Beetown · Town of Bloomington · Village of Bloomington · Village of Blue River · Boscobel · Town of Boscobel · Town of Cassville · Village of Cassville · Town of Castle Rock · Town of Clifton · Village of Dickeyville · Town of Ellenboro · Fennimore · Town of Fennimore · Town of Glen Haven · Town of Harrison · Town of Hazel Green · Village of Hazel Green · Town of Hickory Grove · Town of Jamestown · Town of Liberty · Town of Lima · Town of Little Grant · Village of Livingston · Town of Marion · Town of Millville · Village of Montfort · Town of Mount Hope · Village of Mount Hope · Town of Mount Ida · Town of Muscoda · Village of Muscoda · Town of North Lancaster · Town of Paris · Town of Patch Grove · Village of Patch Grove · Platteville · Town of Platteville · Town of Potosi · Village of Potosi · Town of Smelser · Town of South Lancaster · Village of Tennyson · Town of Waterloo · Town of Watterstown · Town of Wingville · Town of Woodman · Village of Woodman · Town of Wyalusing

Answers from the rulebook for Grant County

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

Grant County rules

  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Grant County-administered zoning programs, including floodplain and shoreland zoning, and the county comprehensive zoning ordinance where applicable.

    • The county page separately lists zoning permit, shoreland permit, floodplain permit, comprehensive zoning, floodplain zoning, and shoreland zoning authorities.
    • The county comprehensive zoning ordinance applies through the towns identified by Grant County; incorporated municipalities may have separate authority.
    • Other state, municipal, sanitary, floodplain, shoreland, and land-use approvals may also be required.
    “The jurisdiction of this ordinance includes all unincorporated lands and waters within the boundaries of Grant County, Wisconsin except those extraterritorial lands and waters specifically exempt or excluded as a result of a municipality’s exercise of its extraterritorial zoning power, and then only to the extent of such specific exemption of exclusion.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Chapter Three, applicable to unincorporated lands and waters within Grant County.
      “The jurisdiction of this ordinance includes all unincorporated lands and waters within the boundaries of Grant County, Wisconsin”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Grant County, including unincorporated areas and towns subject to the Grant County comprehensive zoning ordinance.

    • Grant County’s zoning page identifies the ordinance as applying to these 18 towns: Boscobel, Clifton, Ellenboro, Fennimore, Harrison, Hickory Grove, Jamestown, Liberty, Lima, Millville, Mt. Hope, Mt. Ida, Muscoda, Paris, Potosi, South Lancaster, Watterstown, and Wingville.
    • The comprehensive zoning ordinance states that its jurisdiction includes unincorporated lands and waters in Grant County, except lands and waters specifically exempted or excluded because of municipal extraterritorial zoning.
    • The Grant County municipalities page lists additional towns not included in the 18-town applicability list: Beetown, Bloomington, Cassville, Castle Rock, Glen Haven, Hazel Green, Little Grant, Marion, North Lancaster, Patch Grove, Platteville, Smelser, Waterloo, Woodman, and Wyalusing.
    • The official sources reviewed do not expressly state whether those 15 omitted towns are unzoned or instead operate under their own town, city, village, or extraterritorial zoning rules; omission from the county list is not treated as proof of absence.
    • Shoreland and floodplain zoning may apply separately under other county ordinances and applicable state law.
    “ORDINANCES APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING TOWNS Boscobel Clifton Ellenboro Fennimore Harrison Hickory Grove Jamestown Liberty Lima Millville Mt. Hope MT. Ida Muscoda Paris Potosi South Lancaster Watterstown Wingville”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local-zoning status across Grant County, including county zoning in unincorporated areas and separately administered municipal or extraterritorial areas.
      “ORDINANCES APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING TOWNS Boscobel Clifton Ellenboro Fennimore Harrison Hickory Grove Jamestown Liberty Lima”
    • Varies (with conditions) — The countywide aggregate of township and municipal zoning within Grant County; the county comprehensive zoning ordinance is identified by Grant County as applying to specified towns rather than uniformly to every local jurisdiction.
      “ORDINANCES APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING TOWNS Boscobel Clifton Ellenboro Fennimore Harrison Hickory Grove Jamestown Liberty Lima Millville Mt. Hope MT. Ida Muscoda Paris Potosi South Lancaster Watterstown Wingville”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Local zoning across Grant County, including unincorporated lands and township areas, aggregated across the county.
      “ORDINANCES APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING TOWNS Boscobel Clifton Ellenboro Fennimore Harrison Hickory Grove Jamestown Liberty Lima Millville Mt. Hope MT. Ida Muscoda Paris Potosi South Lancaster Watterstown Wingville”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Published primary and overlay zoning districts for unincorporated lands of Grant County. Incorporated municipalities and town-specific rules may differ.

    • Overlay district regulations supplement and are in addition to the underlying primary district regulations.
    • District boundaries are shown on official zoning maps and parcel/zoning maps for each zoned township.
    • The county zoning page states the listed ordinances apply to the named towns: Boscobel, Clifton, Ellenboro, Fennimore, Harrison, Hickory Grove, Jamestown, Liberty, Lima, Millville, Mt. Hope, Mt. Ida, Muscoda, Paris, Potosi, South Lancaster, Watterstown, and Wingville.

    primary zoning districts: FP; A-1; A-2; R-1; R-2; R-3; C-1; C-2; M-1; M-2; CFR · overlay zoning districts: Highway Interchange; Forest Fire Protection; Floodplain; Shoreland

    “Primary Zoning Districts: The unincorporated lands of Grant County are hereby divided into following zoning districts:”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential and agricultural zoning districts governed by Grant County zoning in unincorporated Grant County, subject to municipality extraterritorial-zoning exclusions.

    • The ordinance table specifies minimum floor areas by district: Farmland Preservation 800 square feet; Agricultural A-1 800 square feet; Agricultural A-2 800 square feet; Residential R-1 1,200 square feet; Residential R-2 400 square feet; Residential R-3 300 square feet; Conservancy Forestry-Recreation 300 square feet.
    • A single manufactured housing unit on an operating farm is exempt from the 24-foot minimum dwelling-width requirement.
    • Any residential dwelling less than 800 square feet in the Agricultural A-1 district requires a conditional use permit and must comply with the ordinance.

    minimum floor area: 800 sq ft (Farmland Preservation, Agricultural A-1, and Agricultural A-2 districts) · minimum floor area: 1200 sq ft (Residential R-1 district) · minimum floor area: 400 sq ft (Residential R-2 district) · minimum floor area: 300 sq ft (Residential R-3 and Conservancy Forestry-Recreation districts)

    “Farmland Preservation - FP 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft Majority use as agriculture 800 sq ft 24 ft 40 ft Agricultural A-1 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft 3 acres 800 sq ft 24 ft 40 ft Agricultural A-2 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft 1 acre 800 sq ft 200 ft 24 ft ₁ 40 ft Residential R-1 12 ft ₂ 50 ft 30 ft 6000 sq ft 1200 sq ft ₃ 90 ft 24 ft 35 ft Residential R-2 10 ft ₄ 45 ft 25 ft 5000 sq ft ₅ 400 sq ft ₆ 60 ft ₇ 24 ft 35 ft Residential R-3 8 ft ₈ 40 ft 20 ft 4000 sq ft ₉ 300 sq ft ₁₀ 50 ft ₁₁ 24 ft 35 ft Conservancy Forestry-Recreation - CFR 40 ft 40 ft 40 ft 4 acres 300 sq ft ₁₂ 200 ft 24 ft 40 ft”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots and parcels in Grant County zoning districts within unincorporated Grant County, subject to the ordinance's extraterritorial-zoning exclusions.

    • The dimensional table specifies minimum lot areas of 3 acres in Agricultural A-1, 1 acre in Agricultural A-2, 6,000 square feet in Residential R-1, 5,000 square feet in Residential R-2, 4,000 square feet in Residential R-3, and 4 acres in Conservancy Forestry-Recreation.
    • Farmland Preservation is listed as majority use as agriculture rather than a numeric minimum lot area in the table.
    • Planned residential development requires a minimum of 10 acres; other planned-development and use-specific requirements may also apply.

    minimum lot area: 3 acres (Agricultural A-1 district) · minimum lot area: 1 acre (Agricultural A-2 district) · minimum lot area: 6000 sq ft (Residential R-1 district) · minimum lot area: 5000 sq ft (Residential R-2 district) · minimum lot area: 4000 sq ft (Residential R-3 district) · minimum lot area: 4 acres (Conservancy Forestry-Recreation district) · minimum land area: 10 acres (Planned residential development)

    “Agricultural A-1 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft 3 acres 800 sq ft 24 ft 40 ft Agricultural A-2 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft 1 acre 800 sq ft 200 ft 24 ft ₁ 40 ft Residential R-1 12 ft ₂ 50 ft 30 ft 6000 sq ft 1200 sq ft ₃ 90 ft 24 ft 35 ft Residential R-2 10 ft ₄ 45 ft 25 ft 5000 sq ft ₅ 400 sq ft ₆ 60 ft ₇ 24 ft 35 ft Residential R-3 8 ft ₈ 40 ft 20 ft 4000 sq ft ₉ 300 sq ft ₁₀ 50 ft ₁₁ 24 ft 35 ft Conservancy Forestry-Recreation - CFR 40 ft 40 ft 40 ft 4 acres 300 sq ft ₁₂ 200 ft 24 ft 40 ft”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Lots in unincorporated Grant County shorelands.
      “minimum lot area shall be 10,000 sq. ft.”
    • Specified — Residential lots in subdivisions governed by Grant County Chapter 305 in unincorporated areas.
      “Lot width as measured from the building setback line and lot area for residential development shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 315, Zoning, but shall be not less than specified below:”
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Required yard, property-line, and highway setbacks for structures and other regulated objects in unincorporated Grant County zoning districts.

    • The dimensional table supplies district-specific front, side, and rear yard requirements; the table notes contain formulas and exceptions for certain districts and uses.
    • Highway setbacks are measured from the roadway centerline or near pair of travel lanes, whichever is more restrictive.
    • The Zoning Administrator may modify a listed centerline setback by no more than 20 feet where the stated existing-structure conditions apply.
    • Setbacks may also be modified by approval of a legal subdivision plat, Planned Unit Development, or a particular ordinance provision.

    highway setback: 110 ft from centerline (Federal and state highways) · highway setback: 70 ft from centerline (County highways) · highway setback: 50 ft from centerline (Town, village, and city highways) · district front/side/rear yards: district-specific text (See Section 3.04 dimensional table)

    “ZONING CLASSIFICATION SETBACK FROM CENTERLINE Federal & State Highways 110 FT County Highways 70 Ft Town, Village, and City Highways 50 Ft”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings and structures in unincorporated Grant County shorelands.
      “Unless exempt under section 6.1(1), or reduced under section 6.2, or increased under section 6.3, a setback of 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark of any navigable water to the nearest part of a building or structure shall be required for all buildings and structures.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Impervious surface coverage within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark in unincorporated Grant County shorelands.

    • The general standard allows up to 15% impervious surface.
    • A property may exceed 15% but not exceed 30% if the applicable standards are met.
    • Treated impervious surfaces meeting the listed documentation and permit requirements may be excluded from calculations.
    • Existing lawful impervious surfaces are subject to separate maintenance, replacement, relocation, and modification conditions.

    general impervious surface maximum: <= 15 percent (Portion of lot within 300 feet of ordinary high-water mark) · maximum impervious surface with applicable standards: <= 30 percent (Portion of lot within 300 feet of ordinary high-water mark)

    “the county shall allow up to 15% impervious surface on the portion of a lot or parcel that is within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark. [...] a property owner may have more than 15% impervious surface but not more than 30% impervious surface on the portion of a lot or parcel that is within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Planned commercial and planned industrial developments authorized under Grant County zoning in unincorporated Grant County.
      “(c) Land Occupancy by Structures: Total land occupancy by all structures shall not exceed 30% of the lot area.”
    • District specific (with conditions) — Planned commercial developments permitted in Commercial C-1, Commercial C-2, Residential R-3, and Flood Plain districts under the county zoning ordinance.
      “(b) Land Area Requirement: Minimum of five (5) acres. (c) Land Occupancy by Structures: Total land occupancy by all structures shall not exceed 30% of the lot area.”
  • Building heightDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Structures on unincorporated lands of Grant County subject to the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance's primary zoning districts, including Farmland Preservation, Agricultural A-1 and A-2, Residential R-1 through R-3, Commercial C-1 and C-2, Light Industrial M-1, Heavy Industrial M-2, and Conservancy-Forestry-Recreation.

    • The ordinance states that the primary zoning districts divide the unincorporated lands of Grant County.
    • The listed maximum structure heights apply by primary zoning district; the table's height column is identified as MAX STRUCTURE HEIGHT.
    • Section 3.16 permits height modifications only when the modification is the minimum necessary and the stated conditions are met.
    • Public and semi-public facilities may be erected to 60 feet if required yards are increased 5 feet for each floor above the district maximum.
    • Essential services and utilities may exceed district height limits only if the structure is no more than twice the distance to the nearest lot line; structures exceeding 100 feet require a Conditional Use Permit.
    • Special elevated structures may exceed district height limits only if no more than one and one-half times the distance to the nearest lot line; structures exceeding 100 feet require a Conditional Use Permit.
    • Architectural projections may be permitted to 100 feet above grade.
    • A zoning permit is issued only if the proposed structure meets the ordinance requirements; otherwise the permit shall be denied.

    Farmland Preservation FP maximum structure height: 40 feet · Agricultural A-1 maximum structure height: 40 feet · Agricultural A-2 maximum structure height: 40 feet · Residential R-1 maximum structure height: 35 feet · Residential R-2 maximum structure height: 35 feet · Residential R-3 maximum structure height: 35 feet · Conservancy Forestry-Recreation CFR maximum structure height: 40 feet · Commercial C-1 maximum structure height: 35 feet · Commercial C-2 maximum structure height: 45 feet · Light Industrial M-1 maximum structure height: 50 feet · Heavy Industrial M-2 maximum structure height: 60 feet

    “The height limitations set forth for each primary district may be exceeded but such modification shall be the minimum necessary”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Construction in the unincorporated Grant County shoreland area within the ordinance's regulated distances from navigable waters.
      “a county may not permit any construction that result in a structure taller than 35 feet within 75 feet of the ordinary high-water mark”
  • Living in an RVTemporary only (with conditions)

    Recreational-vehicle occupancy in planned trailer parks and campgrounds in the unincorporated areas governed by the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.

    • Trailer parks and campgrounds may be permitted only in Conservancy-Forestry-Recreation, Shoreland, and Flood Plain districts.
    • Trailer or campsite use is seasonal only.
    • No trailer or campsite may be used for more than 30 days.
    • The planned development must meet the minimum ten-acre land-area requirement and ten-units-per-gross-usable-acre density limit.
    • Flood-plain developments must provide for flood conditions under the applicable district requirements.
    • The ordinance jurisdiction excludes extraterritorial lands and waters specifically exempted or excluded because of a municipality's exercise of extraterritorial zoning power.

    maximum trailer or campsite occupancy: <= 30 days · minimum land area: >= 10 acres · maximum density: <= 10 units per gross usable acre

    “No trailer or campsite is permitted over 30 days.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Recreational vehicles, campers, tents, and similar temporary recreational structures in planned trailer parks and campgrounds within Grant County zoning jurisdiction.
      “No trailer or campsite is permitted over 30 days.”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Recreational vehicle occupancy in planned trailer parks and campgrounds governed by the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance in applicable unincorporated areas and listed towns.
      “No trailer or campsite is permitted over 30 days.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping in planned trailer parks and campgrounds in the unincorporated areas governed by the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.

    • Allowed only in Conservancy-Forestry-Recreation, Shoreland, and Flood Plain districts when the planned campground is permitted.
    • Camping is seasonal only and may not exceed 30 days per trailer or campsite.
    • The planned development must meet the ten-acre minimum and ten-units-per-gross-usable-acre density limit.
    • Accessory uses, including convenience stores and laundry areas, may not occupy more than 10% of gross usable area.
    • Flood-plain developments must provide for flood conditions under the applicable district requirements.

    maximum campsite duration: <= 30 days · minimum campground area: >= 10 acres · maximum campground density: <= 10 units per gross usable acre · maximum accessory-use area: <= 10 percent of gross usable area

    “Trailer or camp sites as seasonable uses only.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Temporary trailer or campsite use in planned trailer parks and campgrounds within the Grant County zoning jurisdiction.
      “ORDINANCES APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING TOWNS Boscobel Clifton Ellenboro Fennimore Harrison Hickory Grove Jamestown Liberty Lima Millville Mt. Hope MT. Ida Muscoda Paris Potosi South Lancaster Watterstown Wingville”
  • Tiny homesLimited

    Residential dwellings under 800 square feet in the Agricultural A-1 district within the county ordinance’s unincorporated-area and listed-town jurisdiction.

    • A dwelling under 800 square feet is listed as a conditional use in Agricultural A-1.
    • A conditional-use permit under Section 3.27 is required.
    • All applicable ordinance conditions and the general dimensional, setback, highway, floodplain, shoreland, sanitation, and sewage-disposal requirements remain applicable.
    • The ordinance does not use the term tiny home; this claim maps the requested concept to its explicit less-than-800-square-foot residential-dwelling provision.

    maximum floor area: < 800 square feet

    “Conditional Uses: The following uses may be permitted upon issuance of a conditional use permit as provided in Section 3.27 of this ordinance; provided all conditions set forth or specified are complied with.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    Manufactured housing units and manufactured houses proposed for placement or occupancy in areas governed by Grant County zoning.

    • A zoning permit is required for manufactured housing placement.
    • The unit must meet Federal Housing Authority construction, quality, and safety standards, with valid manufacturer certification presented at application.
    • A manufactured housing unit may not be joined to another unit to form a larger structure unless specifically designed and certified for that purpose by the original manufacturer and certified by FHA.
    • The property owner must own the planned dwelling or manufactured housing, subject to stated exemptions for a single mobile home on an operating farm, regulated mobile parks and campgrounds, and multi-family dwellings.
    • A manufactured house must be at least 24 feet wide, except the ordinance’s dimensional note exempts a single manufactured housing unit on an operating farm from the 24-foot minimum dwelling-width requirement.
    • The ordinance separately defines manufactured homes and mobile homes; the mobile-home-park provisions do not establish the general rule for every manufactured home.

    minimum manufactured-house width: >= 24 feet (A single manufactured housing unit on an operating farm is exempt from the 24-foot minimum dwelling-width requirement.)

    “No Zoning Permit shall be issued for any manufactured housing unit, which does not meet Federal Housing Authority (FHA) construction, quality and safety standards. A valid manufacturer’s certification must be presented by the permit applicant at the time of application. Modifications to any existing manufactured housing unit, which would void the FHA certification, are grounds for non-issuance of a zoning permit. [...] A manufactured house must have a minimum width of 24 feet regardless of the method of manufacture in order to receive a zoning permit. The length of the structure must exceed the width along the entire width dimension.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy and placement of manufactured housing units as dwellings in the unincorporated areas subject to the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.
      “(7) Manufactured Housing: (a) No Zoning Permit shall be issued for any manufactured housing unit, which does not meet Federal Housing Authority (FHA) construction, quality and safety standards. A valid manufacturer’s certification must be presented by the permit applicant at the time of application. Modifications to any existing manufactured housing unit, which would void the FHA certification, are grounds for non-issuance of a zoning permit. (b) A manufactured housing unit shall not be joined with another manufactured housing unit or units to form larger structures unless specifically designed and certified for that purpose by the original manufacturer and certified by the FHA. (c) No Zoning permit shall be issued for any manufactured housing or any dwelling to be constructed or installed upon any property, which is not owned by the owner(s) of the planned dwelling or manufactured housing. Likewise, the landowner(s) or vendee (land contract) of that parcel must own any dwelling or manufactured housing erected or placed on any particular parcel of land. A single mobile home on an operating farm, regulated mobile parks and campgrounds and multi-family dwellings are exempt for this provision. Additionally, this paragraph is not intended to prevent the establishment and operation of properly regulated condominium developments. (d) A manufactured house must have a minimum width of 24 feet regardless of the method of manufacture in order to receive a zoning permit. The length of the structure must exceed the width along the entire width dimension.”
  • Accessory dwellingsProhibited

    An independent dwelling unit in an accessory structure in the Grant County R-1, R-2, and R-3 residential districts within the county zoning jurisdiction.

    • In R-1, accessory structures are permitted only when a principal structure is present, and an accessory structure may not be used as a separate dwelling unit.
    • R-2 permits any use permitted in R-1, so the R-1 accessory-structure restriction carries into R-2.
    • R-3 permits any use permitted in R-1, so the R-1 accessory-structure restriction carries into R-3.
    • The ordinance applies to unincorporated lands and waters except specified areas excluded through municipal extraterritorial zoning; the county webpage identifies the towns where the county ordinances apply.
    • This claim does not determine accessory-dwelling rules adopted separately by incorporated municipalities or by towns not listed on the county zoning webpage.
    “no such accessory structure shall be used as a separate dwelling unit”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Prohibited — Use of an accessory structure as a separate dwelling unit in the Residential R-1 district under the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.
      “Accessory structures, including private garages and other structures clearly incidental to an existing residential use of the particular property, provided there is a principal structure present and no such accessory structure shall be used as a separate dwelling unit.”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Grant County administration of private onsite wastewater treatment system permits and maintenance requirements.

    • The county page identifies sanitary permits, POWTS maintenance, service-provider processing, and a Private Onsite Waste Treatment Systems Ordinance, Chapter 225.
    “Permits Sanaitary Permit Application Sanitary Permit Fees Soil Evaluation Report 3 Year POWTS Maintenance Service Provider and Permit Processing”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Grant County, including new, replacement, modified, holding-tank, in-ground, at-grade, mound, and other listed POWTS types.

    • All state and/or county permits must be issued before the POWTS can be installed.
    • A Wisconsin licensed Master Plumber or Master Restricted Sewer Plumber must install the POWTS.
    • The application must be signed and dated by a Master Plumber and submitted with system plans, soil evaluation, and permit fee.
    • In zoned townships, a sanitary permit is required before a zoning permit can be issued for a new single-family home.
    • Systems other than one- or two-family residential in-ground gravity distribution systems must be sent to the state for review and approval.

    non-pressurized in-ground conventional system under 1000 gpd permit fee: 400 USD · mound, at-grade, pressurized in-ground, or sand blanket system under 1000 gpd permit fee: 400 USD · holding tank under 1000 gpd permit fee: 400 USD · POWTS over 1000 gpd permit fee: 500 USD (with or without pretreatment)

    “All State and/or County Permits must be issued before the POWTS can be installed.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Existing Grant County private onsite wastewater treatment systems subject to the county's three-year maintenance cycle and located in areas not served by public sewer.

    • Proper maintenance is required every three years after system installation.
    • The recurring requirement may be satisfied by inspection or pumping; an inspection is not required if the permitted pumping alternative is used.
    • The inspection or pumping must be performed by a Wisconsin licensed master plumber, master restricted sewer plumber, septic tank pumper, registered POWTS maintainer, or POWTS inspector.
    • A licensed person must certify that the POWTS is in proper operating condition and that the septic tank was pumped or was inspected and is less than one-third full of sludge and scum.
    • The homeowner must return the certification form to the Grant County Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning Department with the required maintenance fee.
    • Chapter 225 applies to geographic areas of Grant County not served by public sewer.

    maintenance interval: per 3 years after installation · tank inspection sludge and scum threshold: less than one-third full (Applies when inspection is used instead of pumping)

    “The Grant County POWTS Ordinance requires proper maintenance performed every three years after the installation of your system. You will receive notice that it must be inspected or pumped by a Wisconsin licensed master plumber, master restricted sewer plumber, septic tank pumper, registered POWTS maintainer, or a POWTS inspector.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Private onsite wastewater treatment system installations, component replacements, modifications, system reconnections, and removals in Grant County areas not served by public sewer.
      “Each private on-site wastewater treatment system installation, component replacement, modification, system reconnection or removal shall be inspected by the Grant County CS&Z Department pursuant to § SPS 383.26, Wis. Adm. Code, and this chapter to insure that proper materials and methods are used that comply with all applicable Wisconsin Statute and Administrative Codes.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Non-plumbing sanitation systems and vaulted privies in Grant County, as alternatives within the county sanitation permitting framework.

    • Non-plumbing sanitation systems are regulated pursuant to SPS 91.
    • A vaulted privy requires a county permit.
    • The cited county fee schedule does not establish that every possible off-grid sanitation method is authorized.

    non-plumbing sanitation system permit fee: 100 USD (pursuant to SPS 91) · vaulted privy permit fee: 400 USD

    “NON-PLUMBING SANITATION SYSTEMS Non-Plumbing Sanitation Systems (pursuant to SPS 91) $100 Vaulted Privy Permit $400”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable

    Agricultural uses in Grant County Farmland Preservation (FP) zoning districts in unincorporated zoned townships.

    • Agricultural uses, accessory uses, agriculture-related uses, and undeveloped natural-resource/open-space areas are allowed without a conditional use permit in an FP district.
    • The allowance is not a blanket exemption from all zoning, setback, subdivision, floodplain, shoreland, sanitary, or other applicable requirements.
    • Uses not listed as permitted or conditional are prohibited in the FP district.
    • Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric-transmission, utility, or drainage uses require a conditional use permit and must satisfy the listed statutory and ordinance conditions.
    “The following land uses are allowed without a conditional use permit in a Farmland Preservation zoning district: (1) Agricultural Uses (2) Accessory Uses (3) Agriculture-related Uses (4) Undeveloped natural resource and open space areas”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available — Agricultural, accessory, agriculture-related, and specified natural-resource uses in Grant County Farmland Preservation zoning districts within unincorporated Grant County.
      “The following land uses are allowed without a conditional use permit in a Farmland Preservation zoning district: (1) Agricultural Uses (2) Accessory Uses (3) Agriculture-related Uses (4) Undeveloped natural resource and open space areas”
    • Available (with conditions) — A single manufactured housing unit on an operating farm within the county comprehensive zoning districts.
      “Note (1) = A single manufactured housing unit on an operating farm is exempt from the twenty-four (24) foot minimum dwelling width requirement.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Land divisions and subdivisions subject to Grant County Subdivision Ordinance Chapter 305 in the county's zoned townships and other applicable areas.

    • The comprehensive zoning ordinance states that when a lot or parcel proposed to be divided is subject to the county Subdivision Ordinance, the owner or developer must first comply with that ordinance and obtain its required approvals before division.
    • The county zoning webpage identifies Subdivision of Land Ordinance 305 and lists the towns to which the ordinances apply.
    “if the lot or parcel proposed to be divided is subject to Grant County’s Subdivision Ordinance, the owner or developer must first comply with Grant County’s Subdivision Ordinance and obtain the necessary approvals required by said Subdivision Ordinance before any division can occur.”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Direct private access and new driveway/access points on public roads in unincorporated Grant County subject to county zoning; township driveway permitting may also apply.

    • A new driveway requires a driveway permit from the Town according to the county permit-process document.
    • If the township has a driveway permit process, no direct private access is permitted to Federal or State Highway rights-of-way, interchange ramps or related roads unless included in construction plans or later allowed by conditional use permit.
    • Direct private access is restricted near intersecting roads: 500 feet for Federal and State Highways, 300 feet for County Highways, and 100 feet for Town, Village, and City Highways.
    • Minimum frontage for direct private access is 400 feet on Federal and State Highways, 200 feet on County Highways, and the applicable lot width on Town, Village, and City Highways.
    • The ordinance lists exceptions for certain signs, agricultural activities, utility facilities, qualifying lots of record, and temporary access permits.

    intersection access restriction on Federal and State Highways: 500 feet · intersection access restriction on County Highways: 300 feet · intersection access restriction on Town, Village, and City Highways: 100 feet · minimum frontage on Federal and State Highways: 400 feet · minimum frontage on County Highways: 200 feet

    “If the township has a driveway permit process, the following will apply:”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Buildings and structures proposed in mapped floodplain areas in Grant County's unincorporated areas.

    • The county zoning-process document states floodplain zones are defined by FEMA.
    • If located in a floodplain zone, a floodplain application is needed.
    • Buildings and structures in a floodplain must comply with any applicable floodplain zoning ordinance.
    • The county comprehensive ordinance defines floodplain boundaries by regional-flood inundation determinations or, otherwise, frequently flooded soils and certain occasionally flooded soils.
    “Buildings and structures to be constructed or placed in a floodplain shall be required to comply with any applicable floodplain zoning ordinance.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Grant County zoning permit fees for projects in unincorporated areas subject to the county zoning ordinance.

    • The fee is based on estimated construction or improvement value.
    • The minimum fee is $100.
    • For projects of $300,000 or greater, the fee increases to $2 per $1,000 of estimated cost.

    zoning permit fee below $300,000: per 1 USD per $1,000 estimated value (minimum $100) · zoning permit fee at or above $300,000: per 2 USD per $1,000 estimated value (minimum $100)

    “For projects $300,000 or greater, increase to $2/$1000 estimated cost. Minimum of $100.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning-permit process for projects in unincorporated Grant County; related building and driveway permits may be administered by other authorities.

    • Projects with internal plumbing require a sanitary permit before issuance of a zoning permit.
    • Land-locked parcels require an easement at least 66 feet wide, unless an easement existed before the Town adopted comprehensive zoning.
    • Shoreland and floodplain locations require the applicable applications.
    • A zoning permit application, signature, date, correct fee, and plot plan are required.
    • If staff cannot determine setback compliance, a survey is required before construction.
    • A building permit is needed for a new building with living quarters and is obtained from a building inspector; the inspector needs the sanitary and zoning permit numbers.
    • All zoning permits issued in the Town of Muscoda need approval by the Muscoda Town Board.

    shoreland coverage: 300 feet from ordinary high-water mark of a navigable waterway (The source states vertical distance has no implications on inclusion in the shoreland zone.) · land-locked parcel easement width: >= 66 feet (An easement existing before the Town adopted comprehensive zoning is an alternative.)

    “A sanitary permit is needed prior to the issuance of a zoning permit”

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 covered by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, including those in Grant County.
      “Begin construction after plans are approved and building permit is issued and posted.”
  • 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 — The construction and erosion-control permits for a new one- or two-family dwelling covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, including those in Grant County.
      “The construction and erosion control permits must be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor, who also employs a state-certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier, or by the owner who occupies the home currently or will after completion.”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    New one- and two-family dwellings in Grant County, Wisconsin, under Wisconsin's statewide Uniform Dwelling Code.

    • The UDC covers new one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980 and their additions and alterations.
    • Covered structures include seasonal and recreational dwellings, one- and two-family condominium buildings, certain single-family residences connected to a commercial occupancy, community-based residential facilities with up to eight residents, manufactured/modular/panelized homes, specified additions to mobile or manufactured homes, manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007, non-residential buildings converted to dwellings, and specified Bed and Breakfast Inn additions.
    • The UDC does not cover dwellings built before June 1, 1980 or additions and alterations to those dwellings, manufacture of mobile/manufactured homes subject to federal standards, multi-unit residential buildings with three or more units regulated by state commercial building codes, or detached garages and accessory buildings.
    • For UDC homes, construction begins after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted; required sanitary or well permits, floodplain/zoning/land-use approvals, driveway or other local permits, utility approvals, plans, fees, and inspections may also apply.
    • The UDC is primarily enforced by municipal or county building inspectors who must be state-certified; municipalities may instead elect state enforcement for just new homes.
    • Permit requirements for alterations and additions vary by municipality, but state statutes require owners and builders to comply with UDC rules even if there is no enforcement.
    • The construction and erosion-control permits may be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor meeting the stated qualifier requirement or by the owner who currently occupies or will occupy the home.

    covered dwelling age threshold: June 1, 1980 (Dwellings built before this date are not covered by the UDC construction and heating code described in the brochure.) · maximum residents for covered community-based residential facility: <= 8 residents · manufactured-home installation threshold: >= April 1, 2007 (The brochure specifies installation of manufactured homes produced on or after this date.)

    “The statewide code for new homes in Wisconsin is the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), SPS 320-325 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code and its adopted references. It is a uniform building code that applies across the state. Municipalities may not adopt a more or less stringent code.”
    5 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings in Grant County covered by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code.
      “The statewide code for new homes in Wisconsin is the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), SPS 320-325 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code and its adopted references. It is a uniform building code that applies across the state. Municipalities may not adopt a more or less stringent code.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin built since June 1, 1980.
      “The Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) is the statewide building code for one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Public buildings, places of employment, and multifamily buildings subject to Wisconsin's 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”
    • 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
    • Required — Construction of new one- and two-family dwellings covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, including those in Grant County.
      “Call for inspections of each phase of construction prior to covering it up - check the local inspector’s instructions. The inspector has two business days after the date that you make the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before you may cover up the work. Inspectors will check for compliance with the code.”
  • 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 new one- and two-family dwellings covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, including those in Grant County.
      “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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”

Inside cities and towns in Grant County

Municipal rules found while researching the county. They apply inside that city or town, not to unincorporated land.

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    City of Platteville and its surrounding extraterritorial area.

    • The City of Platteville administers zoning within the city.
    • The city cooperatively administers zoning activities in the surrounding extraterritorial area with the Town of Platteville.
    • The page identifies Chapter 22 as the city zoning ordinance and Chapter 25 as the extraterritorial zoning ordinance.
    “in the City of Platteville, and cooperatively administers these activities in the surrounding Extraterritorial area with the Town of Platteville.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic

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 Grant County, Wisconsin

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

Grant County scores 79/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 4,882 people within a 30-minute drive and mixed durability signals.

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

Grant County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning 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 Grant County, Wisconsin?

Land in Grant County runs about $6,306 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Grant County?

Grant County gets about 37.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 5.2% of years.

How remote is Grant County?

A representative private-land location has about 4,882 people within a 30-minute drive and 930,724 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 Grant compares in Wisconsin

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