Bolthole Index

Lincoln County, Wisconsin

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

79Index Score / 100
#4 of 72 in Wisconsin

A new home in Lincoln County, Wisconsin needs a Uniform Dwelling Code building permit, issued by the town or city if it has delegated authority and otherwise through Wisconsin DSPS1. County zoning applies only in the towns that adopted it, and unzoned towns still fall under county shoreland zoning2. Septic permits for every town come from Lincoln County Land Services34.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for a new UDC-covered home; apply through the town building inspector1
Zoning
County zoning only in the towns that adopted it; shoreland zoning applies even in unzoned towns2
Septic
Lincoln County Land Services reviews POWTS designs and issues sanitary permits3
Owner-builder
An owner who occupies or will occupy the home may take out construction and erosion-control permits5
RV living
Private-land occupancy remains unconfirmed; floodplain campground stays have separate limits46
Tiny home
Occupancy and minimum-size rules are unconfirmed; parcel zoning and dwelling-code requirements still need review4
Private well
Advance DNR notice is required before most new private-well construction7
Septic soil difficulty
Mapped soils show 0% without severe limits for a conventional drain field8

Who to call

Building permits

Town Building Inspector

Uniform Dwelling Code building permits and inspections where the town or city has delegated authority; the inspector varies by town

Zoning

Lincoln County Land Services Department

Main phone and office for county zoning, shoreland and floodplain questions, land-use approvals, and POWTS sanitary permits (phone 715-539-1087)

715-539-1087

801 N. Sales Street, Suite 103, Merrill WI 54452

Zoning

Lincoln County Land Services, Zoning and Land Use

County zoning, shoreland, subdivision and floodplain permits in the towns that have adopted county zoning; shoreland zoning in every unzoned town

Septic permits

Lincoln County Land Services, Private Sewage Systems (POWTS)

Septic (POWTS) design review, sanitary permits and construction inspection for Lincoln County, including in towns without county zoning

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

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

Yes. Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code applies statewide to one- and two-family dwellings, including manufactured-home installations9. A UDC building permit is required for a new one- or two-family dwelling, including stick-built, modular and manufactured-home installations; a municipality with delegated authority issues the permit, while other applications go to Wisconsin DSPS1. Construction may begin only after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted, and permit requirements for additions and alterations vary by municipality10. Ask the applicable town or city whether an addition or alteration needs a building permit11. An owner who occupies or will occupy the home may apply without a dwelling-contractor certification, but the owner-builder allowance does not remove other permit obligations5. County zoning permits and septic permits are separate approvals from the UDC building permit4.

Who handles Lincoln County building permits and inspections?

The town or city with delegated UDC authority is the first contact for a Lincoln County building permit and construction inspections; where a municipality has no delegated authority, the application goes to Wisconsin DSPS1. The responsible building inspector depends on the town, so confirm the current inspector with the town clerk, using the county's municipal officials contact page11. Lincoln County Land Services is the separate contact for county zoning approvals, shoreland and floodplain questions, and septic permits; its office is at the Lincoln County Service Center, 801 N. Sales Street, Suite 103, Merrill, and the phone number is 715-539-10874. New one- and two-family dwellings require footing, foundation and reinforcement, rough, insulation and final inspections12. Occupancy follows a final inspection with no major health or safety violations; some municipalities also issue an occupancy permit13.

Does Lincoln County have zoning?

Lincoln County zoning applies only in the towns that adopted it: Bradley, Corning, Harding, King, Merrill, Russell, Schley, Scott, Skanawan, Tomahawk and Wilson2. The other towns are unzoned by the county, and they remain subject to Lincoln County shoreland zoning2. An unzoned town may still have its own rules, so ask the town clerk as well11.

County shoreland zoning covers unincorporated land within 1,000 feet of a lake, pond or flowage or within 300 feet of a river or stream14. In those shoreland areas, buildings must sit at least 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark, and lots need at least 10,000 square feet with public sewer or 20,000 square feet without it1516. Development within the county's regulated floodplain requires a land-use permit, flood-safety review and compliance with the applicable floodplain standards17.

Lincoln County minimum lot size, ordinary setbacks, lot coverage and general building-height limits in the zoned towns could not be confirmed; ask Land Services which district and ordinance govern the parcel4.

How do septic permits work in Lincoln County?

Lincoln County Land Services reviews private onsite wastewater treatment system designs and issues sanitary permits, including in towns without county general zoning318. A sanitary permit is required for installation, construction, replacement or an addition to a POWTS, and the local permit depends on approved plan review19. POWTS plan materials include owner and project information, signed plans, supporting documents and the plan-review fee20. Inspection of POWTS construction and installation is required; follow the approval letter and contact the agency that issued the permit21. Mapped soils show 0% without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so arrange a soil evaluation before fixing the house location8. Wisconsin requires private wastewater systems to be visually inspected at least once every 3 years22.

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

Lincoln County has not confirmed one countywide answer for living in an RV, temporary camping on an ordinary private parcel, or occupying a tiny home. Ask Lincoln County Land Services which zoning rules apply to the parcel, then ask the applicable town about any town-level ordinance before buying or placing a unit4. A separate rule applies to camping units in public or private campgrounds within regulated floodplain areas: a unit may remain on a site for no more than 180 consecutive days, must then leave the floodplain for at least 24 hours, and needs the campground operator's written authorization when it remains longer than 30 days6. Private campgrounds in county zoning districts are for nonpermanent overnight habitation and must have 4 or more camping units23. Neither campground rule answers whether someone may live in an RV on an ordinary private lot. A tiny home that qualifies as a new one- or two-family dwelling must follow the statewide UDC permit rules, and a private wastewater system requires county review243.

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

  1. Ask Lincoln County Land Services to identify the parcel's zoning coverage and any shoreland, floodplain or land-use approvals425. Floodplain development requires a land-use permit and flood-safety review17.
  1. Ask the town clerk which building inspector and town permits apply11.
  1. If the home will use private wastewater, submit the owner and project information, signed plans, supporting documents and review fee, then obtain the sanitary permit after plan approval2019.
  1. Submit the UDC application, plans, required project data, contractor-license information when applicable, and fee to the delegated municipality or Wisconsin DSPS201.
  1. Notify the inspector identified on the UDC permit at each required inspection stage12.
  1. Occupy the home only after a final inspection finds no major health or safety violations; ask whether the municipality also issues an occupancy permit13.

What should you check before buying land in Lincoln County?

Start by checking the parcel on Lincoln County's zoning map because county zoning coverage varies by area, then separately check shoreland and floodplain jurisdiction2526. Development in a regulated floodplain requires a land-use permit and review for flood safety17. Test the proposed septic area early because mapped soils show 0% without severe limitations for a conventional drain field8. For a new private well, Wisconsin generally requires advance DNR notice; a high-capacity well capable of 70 gallons per minute or more instead requires written approval7. If access will connect to a state highway, WisDOT requires a connection permit27. Lincoln County is 80.3% wooded and 93.7% of its land is at a slope of 15% or less, but parcel-level timber, drainage and buildability still need on-site review2829.

Watch-outs

  • A parcel in an unzoned town is not automatically unrestricted because county shoreland zoning, floodplain rules and town rules may still apply226.
  • The floodplain campground rule does not settle RV living on an ordinary private parcel; ask Land Services and the applicable town before purchase64.
  • Building permits, county zoning permits and septic permits come from three different offices, so confirm each one for the parcel14.

Sources

  1. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  2. Lincoln County Land Services, Zoning and Land Use (co.lincoln.wi.us)
  3. Lincoln County Private Sewage Systems (POWTS) (2026 county census)
  4. Lincoln County Land Services Department (co.lincoln.wi.us)
  5. Instructions for Submitting a UDC Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  6. Lincoln County Floodplain Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  7. Well and heat exchange notification, quoted and re-checked
  8. 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
  9. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  10. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  11. Town Building Inspector (co.lincoln.wi.us)
  12. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  13. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  14. WebMerc_Zoning_JS (MapServer), quoted and re-checked
  15. Wisconsin’s Shoreland Management Program, quoted and re-checked
  16. Wisconsin’s Shoreland Management Program, quoted and re-checked
  17. Lincoln County Floodplain Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  18. Lincoln County Land Services, Private Sewage Systems (POWTS) (co.lincoln.wi.us)
  19. Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS), quoted and re-checked
  20. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  21. Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS), quoted and re-checked
  22. Wisconsin Maintenance Program (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. Lincoln County Zoning Code, §17.3.05, quoted and re-checked
  24. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  25. Zoning Layer — Lincoln County GIS, quoted and re-checked
  26. WebMerc_Zoning_JS — Lincoln County Zoning Base Map Layers, quoted and re-checked
  27. State highway connection permits (driveways & more) (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Share of land at 15% slope or less: 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, Lincoln County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleLincoln CountyMarathon CountyOneida CountyLanglade CountyTaylor CountyPrice CountyMenominee County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesNoYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Land ServicesCounty ConservationCounty Planning & Zoning Dept.County Land Records & Regulations Dept.County Zoning Dept.County Zoning Dept.County Land Conservation/Forestry/Zoning

County locator

Lincoln County in Wisconsin

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

How Lincoln County scores

Seclusion84100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency64100% ev.
Admin Boringness45100% ev.
Durability64100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost71100% 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 →

$243kTypical home
1.4%Property tax
$3,790Land / acre
32.8"Annual rain
3.4% of yrsSevere drought
0.4 / yr (+0.4)Mid-century 100°F days
12.6 daysMid-century dry spell
1.66" (+11.2%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.63×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,085Home insurance / yr
1.7% / yrInsurance growth
0.6%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
4,870People within 30 min
525,173People within 2 hr
20,260Radius comparison (15 mi)
32.3People / sq mi
0%Federal land
93.7%Land at 15% slope or less
0%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
0 acWorkable land screen
80.3%Wooded land
34 tonsBiomass / forest ac
41.6°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Lincoln 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 Birch · Town of Bradley · Town of Corning · Town of Harding · Town of Harrison · Town of King · Merrill · Town of Merrill · Town of Pine River · Town of Rock Falls · Town of Russell · Town of Schley · Town of Scott · Town of Skanawan · Town of Somo · Tomahawk · Town of Tomahawk · Town of Wilson

Answers from the rulebook for Lincoln County

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

Lincoln County rules

  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County-administered shoreland zoning in applicable unincorporated areas of Lincoln County, Wisconsin, together with county zoning-regulation boundaries represented in the county's official GIS service.

    • Shoreland zoning applies only to unincorporated land within 1,000 feet of the ordinary high water mark of a lake, pond, or flowage, or within 300 feet of the ordinary high water mark of a river or stream, or to the landward side of the floodplain, whichever distance is greater.
    • The county GIS layer separately identifies areas labeled No County Zoning, so general county zoning coverage is not countywide across every parcel.
    • The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources states that counties implement the statewide shoreland zoning standards under Chapter NR 115.

    lake, pond, or flowage shoreland distance: 1000 feet from ordinary high water mark · river or stream shoreland distance: 300 feet from ordinary high water mark (or to the landward side of the floodplain, whichever distance is greater)

    “Service Description: Lincoln County WI Parcel Base Map Layers [...] Shoreland Zoning [...] Copyright Text: Lincoln County, WI”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Lincoln County's county zoning and regulation mapping, including zoning-district polygons and areas identified as having no county zoning.
      “Service Description: Lincoln County WI Zoning Base Map Layers Description: Lincoln County Zoning and Regulation boundaries.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning conditions across Lincoln County, aggregated from the county's official zoning boundary layer by municipality and zoning status.

    • The official county GIS layer contains multiple zoning classifications, including Agriculture, Forestry, General Business, General Industrial, Planned Business, Planned Industrial, Recreation, Rural Lands, and Rural Residential districts.
    • The same official layer includes polygons labeled “No County Zoning,” demonstrating that local zoning coverage varies by area.
    • The layer includes a MUNICIPALITY field; parcel- or municipality-specific conclusions require consulting the applicable map feature and ordinance.
    “Value: A Label: A Description: N/A [...] Value: NCZ Label: No County Zoning Description: N/A”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Mobile recreational vehicles located in Lincoln County floodplain areas.

    • A mobile recreational vehicle on site for 180 consecutive days or more must meet the elevation and anchoring requirements in §20.4.3(11)(b) and (c).
    • A mobile recreational vehicle that is not fully licensed and ready for highway use must meet the same elevation and anchoring requirements.
    • A vehicle is ready for highway use only if it is on its wheels or jacking system, attached only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions.

    continuous site duration threshold: >= 180 days (The rule also applies regardless of duration when the vehicle is not fully licensed and ready for highway use.)

    “All mobile recreational vehicles that are on site for 180 consecutive days or more or are not fully licensed and ready for highway use shall meet the elevation and anchoring requirements in §20.4.3(11)(b) and (c).”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — RV and other camping-unit occupancy in private campgrounds within Lincoln County zoning districts.
      “Such facilities must have 4 or more camping units. Camping sites within private campgrounds are rented for overnight use, possibly extending to a week or 2 by the same patron. Lack of a rental fee does not exempt a campground from complying with Ch. ATCP 79 and/or Lincoln County Zoning Ordinance.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping units in public or private campgrounds within areas regulated by the Lincoln County Floodplain Zoning Ordinance.

    • Only camping units are allowed.
    • A camping unit may not occupy a campground site for more than 180 consecutive days.
    • After 180 consecutive days, the camping unit must be removed from the floodplain for at least 24 hours.
    • Camping units remaining more than 30 days require limited written authorization from the campground operator.
    • Camping units remaining more than 180 consecutive days must meet applicable floodplain-district requirements.

    maximum consecutive occupancy: 180 days (Camping unit must be removed from the floodplain for a minimum of 24 hours after the limit.) · limited authorization threshold: > 30 days (Written authorization must be kept on file by the campground operator.)

    “may not occupy any site in the campground for more than 180 consecutive days”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Development and use within areas covered by the regional flood or base flood under the Lincoln County Floodplain Zoning Ordinance.

    • The ordinance applies to areas covered by the regional flood or base flood.
    • Development or use must comply with the ordinance and other applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
    • The most restrictive applicable map information applies where more than one map or revision is referenced.
    • Permit applications must be reviewed for flood safety.
    • New construction and substantial improvements in flood-prone areas must satisfy anchoring, flood-damage-resistant materials, construction-practice, and service-equipment requirements.
    • Subdivisions in regulated areas must be reviewed for compliance and include regional flood elevation and floodway data when required.
    • The zoning administrator must deny permits for development that obstructs flow or increases regional flood heights by 0.01 foot or more unless the ordinance and official maps are amended with required DNR and FEMA approvals.
    • No building may be occupied in a regulated area until a certificate of compliance is issued, except where no permit is required.

    regional flood height increase threshold: >= 0.01 foot (Permit denial unless required ordinance, map, floodway-line, and profile amendments are made and approved.) · permit expiration: 730 days (Applies to permits issued under the floodplain ordinance.)

    “A land use permit shall be obtained before any new development”

Wisconsin rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    New one- and two-family dwellings covered by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, including covered additions and alterations.

    • The cited brochure states that permit requirements for alterations and additions vary by municipality.
    • Construction begins only after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted.
    • The enforcing jurisdiction may be the municipality, county, or state.
    • Local zoning, land-use, floodplain, sanitary, well, driveway, utility, and other approvals may also be required.
    • A building permit cannot be issued for a new dwelling using a private onsite wastewater treatment system until a sanitary permit has been issued.
    “Begin construction after plans are approved and building permit is issued and posted.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Lincoln County, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.
      “A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units.”
    • Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Wisconsin.
      “A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
    • Required — Covered UDC construction in Lincoln County.
      “A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

    An owner obtaining construction and erosion-control permits for a dwelling covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.

    • The owner must occupy the home currently or will occupy it after completion.
    • The exemption permits the owner to take out the construction and erosion-control permits without the state-certified Dwelling Contractor and Dwelling Contractor Qualifier arrangement described for contractors.
    • The owner-occupancy statement must be checked on the permit application if the applicant does not possess Dwelling Contractor certification.
    • The source describes an owner-occupancy condition; it does not establish a general exemption for non-occupant owners.
    “The construction and erosion control permits must be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor, who also employs a state-certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier, or by the owner who occupies the home currently or will after completion.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner-occupant applying for a Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permit.
      “I vouch that I am or will be an owner-occupant [...] without a Dwelling Contractor Certification”
  • 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”
    6 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Wisconsin one- and two-family dwelling construction, including manufactured homes, applicable in Lincoln County.
      “SPS 320-325 Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), construction standard for 1-2 family dwelling units, applies uniformly statewide”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Wisconsin, including manufactured-home installations.
      “The program governing one- and two-family dwelling units”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings and covered additions or alterations in Lincoln 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.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin built since June 1, 1980.
      “The Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) is the statewide building code for one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New Wisconsin one- and two-family dwelling construction, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations
      “A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
    • Adopted — Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code, chapters SPS 320-325, for new one- and two-family dwelling units, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.
      “SPS 320-325 Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), construction standard for 1-2 family dwelling units, applies uniformly statewide”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Each phase of construction of a one- or two-family dwelling governed by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.

    • Inspections are called for before each phase is covered up.
    • The local inspector’s instructions apply.
    • The inspector has two business days after the inspection request and the work being ready to inspect before the work may be covered.
    • Inspections check compliance with the code and may also check compliance with approved plans.
    • The UDC is enforced by municipal or county building inspection departments or the Wisconsin Division of Industry Services.

    inspection response period: 2 business days (After the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before the work may be covered up.)

    “Call for inspections of each phase of construction prior to covering it up - check the local inspector’s instructions. The inspector has two business days after the date that you make the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before you may cover up the work. Inspectors will check for compliance with the code.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New one- and two-family dwellings in Lincoln County under the Wisconsin UDC.
      “The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings.”
    • Required — New one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin.
      “The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings. When ready for inspection, notify the inspector identified on your UDC permit.”
    • Required — UDC construction phases in Lincoln County.
      “The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings. When ready for inspection, notify the inspector identified on your UDC permit.”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Occupancy of a dwelling governed by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code after construction.

    • Occupancy follows a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found.
    • Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits; the state source does not state that every municipality must issue a certificate or occupancy permit.
    • The dwelling exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.

    exterior completion deadline: 2 years after permit issuance

    “Take occupancy after receiving a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found. (Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits.) Also, the dwelling’s exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy of a UDC-covered dwelling in Lincoln County.
      “Take occupancy after receiving a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found. (Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits.)”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Statewide floodplain zoning guidance; the Wisconsin DNR publishes a model floodplain ordinance for communities but does not thereby establish every local zoning district.

    • The source describes a model ordinance that communities should use when amending, repealing, or recreating a floodplain ordinance.
    • The source does not provide a statewide inventory or complete publication of local zoning districts.
    • Local community adoption and local ordinance details remain necessary.
    “This is the model version that should be used by any community amending or repealing and recreating a floodplain ordinance.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Unincorporated shoreland areas of Lincoln County, Wisconsin, within 1,000 feet of a navigable lake, flowage, or pond, or within 300 feet of a navigable stream or the landward side of a floodplain, whichever is greater.

    • Wisconsin statewide shoreland standards must be met or exceeded by county shoreland zoning ordinances.
    • For lots served by public sanitary sewer, the minimum average width is 65 feet and the minimum area is 10,000 square feet.
    • For lots not served by public sanitary sewer, the minimum average width is 100 feet and the minimum area is 20,000 square feet.
    • The county may impose additional requirements not listed in the statewide summary.

    minimum lot area: >= 10000 square feet (Sewered lots; minimum average width is 65 feet.) · minimum average lot width: >= 65 feet (Sewered lots.) · minimum lot area: >= 20000 square feet (Unsewered lots; minimum average width is 100 feet.) · minimum average lot width: >= 100 feet (Unsewered lots.)

    “minimum average width of 65 feet [...] minimum average width of 100 feet”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Statewide minimum shoreland standards for unincorporated land within 1,000 feet of a navigable lake, flowage, or pond, or within 300 feet of a navigable stream or the landward side of a floodplain, whichever is greater.
      “Sewered lots must have a minimum average width of 65 feet and a minimum area of 10,000 square feet.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Unincorporated shoreland areas of Lincoln County, Wisconsin, within 1,000 feet of a navigable lake, flowage, or pond, or within 300 feet of a navigable stream or the landward side of a floodplain, whichever is greater.

    • Wisconsin statewide shoreland standards must be met or exceeded by county shoreland zoning ordinances.
    • All buildings and structures must be at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark.
    • Exceptions include piers, boat-hoists, fishing rafts, utilities, walkways, stairways or rail systems, decks or gazebos complying with Wis. Stat. § 59.692(1v), and boathouses.
    • If an existing development pattern exists, counties may allow new homes closer than 75 feet through setback averaging.
    • The county may impose additional requirements not listed in the statewide summary.

    shoreland setback: >= 75 feet from ordinary high water mark (Listed exceptions and qualifying setback averaging.)

    “set back at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Buildings and structures in unincorporated Wisconsin shoreland zoning areas measured from the ordinary high water mark.
      “All buildings and structures must be set back at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark.”
  • 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.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    POWTS plan review, permitting, inspection, and maintenance in Wisconsin, including Lincoln County.

    • Local municipality or county handles local permitting where applicable.
    • A local permit is conditional on approved plan review.
    • Counties operate maintenance-tracking programs as state agents.
    “Counties as state agents are obliged to inventory and operate a program to track maintenance activity”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Mixed (with conditions) — Private onsite wastewater treatment systems statewide in Wisconsin.
      “Plans for Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS) are subject to review by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS), or may require a joint review by the DNR and DSPS.”
  • Septic permitLimited

    Large private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Wisconsin.

    • A County Sanitary Permit is required in addition to WPDES permit coverage.
    • Construction may begin before WPDES issuance, but discharge may not begin until the WPDES permit is issued.
    • Large POWTS generally involve design flow near or above 12,000 gallons per day or more than 85 residential bedrooms.

    residential bedrooms threshold: > 85 bedrooms (Large-system classification threshold described by DNR.) · nonresidential design flow threshold: > 12000 gallons per day (Large-system classification threshold described by DNR.)

    “A County Sanitary Permit must be obtained in addition to the WPDES permit. Construction may commence prior to the WPDES permit issuance, but a system cannot start discharging until the WPDES permit is issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Privately owned wastewater treatment systems and septic systems statewide in Wisconsin.

    • Systems must be visually inspected at least once every three years.
    • Anaerobic treatment tanks must be serviced when combined sludge and scum volume reaches one-third of tank volume.
    • Counties, acting as state agents, operate maintenance-tracking programs and send reminders to landowners.

    visual inspection interval: <= 3 years · combined sludge and scum service threshold: >= 33.333333 percent of tank volume (One-third of tank volume.)

    “The code only requires that systems shall be visually inspected at least once every 3 years.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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
    • Limited — New private-well construction in Wisconsin, including Lincoln County.
      “Obtain a Well Construction Notification Number prior to constructing a well.”
  • 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.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Lodging rented to tourists or transients for short periods in Wisconsin, including homes, condos, cabins, cottages, and similar lodging facilities.

    • A DATCP lodging permit is required for all lodging facilities in Wisconsin.
    • A tourist or transient must be away from the person's permanent address.
    • The reviewed source does not establish local zoning or municipal operating restrictions.
    “If lodging is rented to a tourist or transient, it will require a permit.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    DNR construction-site stormwater permit coverage for construction projects disturbing one or more acres statewide.

    • Coverage applies to projects disturbing one acre or more through clearing, grading, excavating, or stockpiling fill.
    • The entire proposed project is counted, including phased common plans of development or sale.
    • Agricultural activities described in NR 216.42 may be exempt.
    • The applicable fee depends on acres of land disturbance.

    application fee for 1 to less than 2 acres: 250 USD (after January 1, 2023) · application fee for 2 to less than 5 acres: 350 USD (after January 1, 2023) · application fee for 5 to less than 25 acres: 550 USD (after January 1, 2023) · application fee for 25 or more acres: 800 USD (after January 1, 2023)

    “Acres of Land Disturbance | Application Fee Before Jan. 1, 2023 | Application Fee After Jan. 1, 2023 [...] At least 1 but less than 2 | $ 140 | $ 250 [...] 2 or more and less than 5 | $ 140 | $ 350 [...] 5 or more and less than 25 | $ 235 | $ 550 [...] 25 or greater | $ 350 | $ 800”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Variable (with conditions) — Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code permit fees for new dwellings statewide.
      “The municipality shall, by ordinance, determine fees”
    • Published (with conditions) — DNR well construction notification for a new private well that is not a high capacity well.
      “The Well Construction Notification fee is $50.50. A Heat Exchange Notification has no fee. The fee and notification number are not refundable or transferable.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    DNR construction-site stormwater permit coverage for construction projects disturbing one or more acres.

    • Submit a Notice of Intent at least 14 working days before construction.
    • Develop an erosion control and stormwater management plan.
    • Read the general permit, pay the applicable fee, implement best management practices, conduct weekly inspections, and file a Notice of Termination when complete.
    • Waterway and wetland permits may also be needed.

    minimum disturbed area: >= 1 acre · NOI lead time: 14 working days before construction

    “Submit the Notice of Intent (NOI) form to the DNR at least 14 working days before construction will begin. [...] Conduct weekly on-site inspections through the duration of the project. [...] File a Notice of Termination once the project is complete.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — UDC and POWTS permitting processes applicable in Wisconsin, including Lincoln County.
      “Owner information Site and project information Plan set (signed, sealed, and dated) Supporting documentation such as specifications Plan review fee payment”
    • Published (with conditions) — Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code permits for one- and two-family dwellings statewide.
      “At least 2 sets of plans for all one- and 2-family dwellings shall be submitted”
    • Published (with conditions) — Construction of a new private well in Wisconsin that is not a high capacity well.
      “Obtain a Well Construction Notification Number prior to constructing a well. This applies to both drilled wells and driven point wells. [...] A Well Construction Report must be completed and submitted to DNR within 30 days of well or drillhole construction.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

    Recreational trailers, pickup truck campers, and motor homes occupying campsites in Wisconsin State Park System family campgrounds.

    • Camping reservations are required before setting up on any site.
    • A campsite may contain no more than one recreation trailer, pickup truck camper, or motor home.
    • No person may camp or leave a camping unit in a family campground for more than 14 days in any 21 days.
    • Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit.

    maximum camping-unit occupancy per campsite: 1 recreation trailer, pickup truck camper, or motor home (Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit.) · maximum stay: 14 days in any 21 days

    “A campsite may be occupied by no more than one recreation trailer, pickup truck camper or motor home. Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit. [...] No one may camp or leave a camping unit in a family campground for more than 14 days in any 21 days.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Occupancy of recreational vehicles, including recreation trailers, pickup truck campers, motor homes, camper vans, and truck campers, at Wisconsin State Park System campsites.
      “A campsite may be occupied by no more than one recreation trailer, pickup truck camper or motor home. Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit.”
    • Limited — Temporary camping at Wisconsin State Park System properties.
      “Camping reservations are required and can be made up to 11 months in advance of your planned date of occupancy. Campers must make a reservation before setting up on any site.”
    • Limited — Temporary camping in Wisconsin State Park System family campgrounds.
      “Camping reservations are required and can be made up to 11 months in advance of your planned date of occupancy. Campers must make a reservation before setting up on any site. [...] No one may camp or leave a camping unit in a family campground for more than 14 days in any 21 days. [...] Not all properties offer camping during non-summer months. Camping seasons vary by property.”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    Wisconsin counties may enact and amend county zoning ordinances under Wis. Stat. § 59.69 for participating towns, which are generally unincorporated areas.

    • County zoning applies only in towns that have adopted county zoning.
    • After a comprehensive revision of the county zoning ordinance, the town has authority to decide whether county zoning applies in the town.
    • Towns have authority to approve or disapprove amendments to a county zoning ordinance.
    • A town that does not fall under county zoning may be unzoned or may have its own town zoning ordinance.
    “Counties exercise zoning ordinances under s. 59.69, Wis. Stats. County zoning only applies in towns that have adopted county zoning.”
  • county building authorityGeneral

    Wisconsin county authority to administer construction and inspection of new one- and two-family dwellings, including in unincorporated areas, through the UDC delegation and inspection framework.

    • Counties must have delegated authority to exercise UDC jurisdiction.
    • A county with delegated authority has jurisdiction over new one- and two-family dwellings in cities, villages, and towns that do not have their own delegated authority.
    • The DSPS page directs applicants to the municipality when it has delegated authority and otherwise to DSPS or the appointed county inspector.
    • The authority described is for construction and inspection under the statewide UDC; local zoning, land-use, sanitary, floodplain, and other requirements may still apply.

    covered construction: new one- and two-family dwellings (Jurisdiction depends on DSPS delegation and whether the municipality has its own delegated authority.)

    “Counties: Counties with delegated authority have been authorized jurisdiction over the construction and inspection of new one- and two-family dwellings in cities, villages, and towns which do not have their own delegated authority.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • General — County authority to enforce the statewide Uniform Dwelling Code and administer building inspection and permitting for new one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin, including unincorporated areas where the county is the responsible inspection authority.
      “The UDC is primarily enforced by municipal or county building inspectors who must be state-certified. In lieu of local enforcement, municipalities have the option to have the state provide enforcement for just new homes.”
    • Limited — County enforcement of Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code for new one- and two-family dwellings in municipalities, including towns, that do not have their own delegated authority
      “Counties: Counties with delegated authority have been authorized jurisdiction over the construction and inspection of new one- and two-family dwellings in cities, villages, and towns which do not have their own delegated authority.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In Wisconsin, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Lincoln 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
  • 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 Lincoln County, Wisconsin

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

Lincoln County scores 79/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 4,870 people within a 30-minute drive and manageable long-term carry cost.

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

Lincoln County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Lincoln County Land Services (Zoning & Conservation). 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.

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

Living in an RV on your own land in Lincoln County is limited to specific cases: Mobile recreational vehicles located in Lincoln County floodplain areas. A mobile recreational vehicle on site for 180 consecutive days or more must meet the elevation and anchoring requirements in §20.4.3(11)(b) and (c). A mobile recreational vehicle that is not fully licensed and ready for highway use must meet the same elevation and anchoring requirements. Confirm with the county before relying on it.

How much does land cost in Lincoln County, Wisconsin?

Land in Lincoln County runs about $3,790 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Lincoln County?

Lincoln County gets about 32.8" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.4% of years.

How remote is Lincoln County?

A representative private-land location has about 4,870 people within a 30-minute drive and 525,173 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 Lincoln compares in Wisconsin

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