Building permits, zoning and land rules in Marinette County, Wisconsin
77Index Score / 100 #7 of 72 in Wisconsin
Marinette County, Wisconsin requires a Uniform Dwelling Code building permit for a new one- or two-family home, including stick-built, modular and manufactured-home installations1. A delegated municipality issues the building permit; otherwise Wisconsin DSPS does, while county zoning approval applies outside incorporated villages and cities and county Land Information oversees septic systems countywide234.
These are affiliate links — we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Bolthole Index earns from qualifying purchases.
Do you need a building permit in Marinette County, Wisconsin?
Yes. A new one- or two-family dwelling in Marinette County needs a Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code building permit, including a stick-built, modular or manufactured-home installation1. A municipality with delegated authority issues and inspects that building permit; otherwise the application goes to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services11. County zoning approval remains separate for covered unincorporated land, and Marinette County continues to regulate onsite wastewater systems countywide124. An owner who occupies or will occupy the dwelling may apply for construction and erosion-control permits without Dwelling Contractor Certification, but the owner-builder allowance does not waive the building permit or code requirements6. Marinette County zoning-permit fees are set by the County Board, but the cited ordinance does not state the amount13.
Who issues Marinette County building permits, and how do you reach them?
The building-permit issuer depends on the parcel's municipality: contact a municipality that has delegated Uniform Dwelling Code authority, but submit through Wisconsin DSPS when the municipality lacks that authority2. Ask the town, village or city clerk whether the municipality uses the state eSLA system and who performs building inspections14. Municipal building-permit authority does not move county zoning or septic work: Marinette County Land Information handles county zoning, sanitation, shoreland and floodplain questions at 715-732-7541 or at the Resource Center, 1925 Ella Court in Marinette12415. The county office also links to property, sanitary, permit and GIS data15.
Does Marinette County have zoning?
Yes, within defined territory. Marinette County Chapter 17 divides the listed unincorporated town territories into Forestry, Recreation and Unrestricted districts; incorporated villages and cities are outside that county chapter125. A district called Unrestricted is still a mapped county zoning district, and buildings and uses must conform to its district rules5. Most construction, enlargement, alteration, relocation or changes in use require county zoning approval in covered territory16. Give Marinette County Land Information the parcel number and confirm jurisdiction, district, use and setbacks before designing15. In applicable shoreland areas, structures are generally set back 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark; a qualifying open-sided structure no larger than 200 square feet may use a 35-foot setback when the vegetation condition is met17.
How do septic permits work in Marinette County?
Marinette County regulates the location, construction, installation, alteration, maintenance and use of onsite wastewater systems throughout the county, including addresses where a city or village handles building permits or zoning4. Contact County Land Information before fixing the house location, because a building permit for a new dwelling using private onsite wastewater cannot issue until the sanitary permit has issued1815. The county materials do not confirm exactly when each septic permit form is required, so ask the Zoning/Sanitary Division which application fits the parcel15. Only 12.6% of county soils are mapped without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so make an acceptable site evaluation a purchase condition19. All county septic-system owners must join the maintenance program, and septic tanks should be inspected or pumped every 3 years20.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on land in Marinette County?
We could not confirm a Marinette County rule that generally allows long-term RV residence on private land, so ask the county Zoning/Sanitary Division about the parcel, duration and wastewater plan before moving in15. The located RV rule governs designated county park campsites and does not resolve private-land occupancy7. We also could not confirm a countywide tiny-home occupancy rule or minimum dwelling size; ask which zoning district and dwelling classification apply15. A tiny home used as a new dwelling may still fall under the state building-permit system, and manufactured-home installations expressly require a Uniform Dwelling Code building permit1. Any building with plumbing fixtures outside public sewer service needs a suitable way to treat, recycle, disperse or hold wastewater9.
Building a home in Marinette County: the steps, in order
Confirm whether the parcel is in a town, village or city and ask the municipal clerk whether the municipality or Wisconsin DSPS issues its Uniform Dwelling Code building permit2.
Give Marinette County Land Information the parcel number and confirm whether county zoning applies, then check the mapped district, proposed use, shoreland setbacks and floodplain constraints1215.
If the home will use private septic, establish a workable system and obtain the applicable county sanitation approval before the building permit418.
Submit the building-permit application, contractor details, plans, project information and fee through the municipal or DSPS route that applies2.
Begin after approval, then notify the inspector named on the building permit for footings, foundation, rough work, insulation and final inspections21.
Take occupancy only after the final inspection finds no major health or safety violations; some municipalities also issue an occupancy permit22.
What should you check before buying land in Marinette County?
Start with jurisdiction and zoning: Chapter 17 covers the listed unincorporated town territories, while incorporated villages and cities follow other zoning rules125. Check wastewater feasibility early because just 12.6% of mapped county soils avoid severe conventional drain-field limits19. For waterfront land, locate the ordinary high water mark because structures are generally set back 75 feet, with narrower exceptions for qualifying structures17. Height limits of 32 or 35 feet apply to certain nonconforming structures, not every building countywide23. Development in a floodway faces strong limits, including prohibitions on new structures, wells and sewage systems24. A driveway connecting to a state highway needs a WisDOT connection permit25. Wisconsin requires advance notice before construction of most new private wells, but we could not confirm an additional Marinette County well permit26.
Watch-outs
New dwellings require building inspections at the footings, foundation, rough-work, insulation and final stages; notify the inspector named on the building permit21.
Only 12.6% of mapped county soils avoid severe limits for a conventional septic drain field, so confirm a workable system before closing19.
Long-term RV living, tiny-home occupancy, minimum dwelling size and a single countywide minimum lot size remain unconfirmed; ask Marinette County Land Information about the specific parcel15.
Chapter 17 county zoning covers the listed unincorporated town territories, not incorporated villages or cities5.
Written October 10, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.
Marinette County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score
How Marinette County scores
Seclusion88100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency65100% ev.
Admin Boringness44100% ev.
Durability58100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost69100% 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 →
$221kTypical home
1.3%Property tax
$5,176Land / acre
31.2"Annual rain
1.4% of yrsSevere drought
0.9 / yr (+0.9)Mid-century 100°F days
12.6 daysMid-century dry spell
1.49" (+11.7%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.57×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$964Home insurance / yr
1% / yrInsurance growth
0.61%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
2,290People within 30 min
518,119People within 2 hr
16,405Radius comparison (15 mi)
30.1People / sq mi
0%Federal land
92.6%Land at 15% slope or less
12.6%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
Each button opens a current land search for Marinette County. Listing sites control their own results and filters.
Analyze a property
Add setup-cost allowances
Use rough quotes or placeholders. Blank fields count as $0.
Working estimate
—land + entered setup costs
Asking $ / acre
—
Setup allowance
—
All-in $ / acre
—
A planning estimate, not a valuation or contractor quote. The USDA benchmark includes farm land and buildings; it is context, not a parcel comp.
Before an offer
Parcel due diligence
0/8 checked
Saved properties and checklist progress stay on this device. Bolthole Index does not receive them.
Cities and towns in Marinette County
Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.
Not yet researched: Town of Amberg · Town of Athelstane · Town of Beaver · Town of Beecher · Village of Coleman · Town of Dunbar · Town of Goodman · Town of Grover · Town of Lake · Town of Middle Inlet · Niagara · Town of Niagara · Town of Pembine · Peshtigo · Town of Peshtigo · Town of Porterfield · Town of Pound · Village of Pound · Town of Silver Cliff · Town of Stephenson · Town of Wagner · Town of Wausaukee · Village of Wausaukee
Answers from the rulebook for Marinette County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Marinette County rules
County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)
Marinette County Chapter 17 zoning in unincorporated areas outside incorporated villages and cities.
Chapter 17 regulates agriculture, forestry, recreation, specified building uses, districts, and setback building lines.
The chapter states it applies outside incorporated villages and cities.
Chapter 17 exceptions state that it does not apply to buildings, land, or premises belonging to or occupied by the United States, the State of Wisconsin, any town, or any school district.
“This chapter is enacted for the purpose of regulating, restricting and determining the areas within the County [...] and the establishment of setback building lines outside of the limits of incorporated villages and cities, pursuant to §59.69(1) Wis. Stats (Updated 4/13/2020).”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Present (with conditions) — Marinette County zoning outside incorporated villages and cities, including the listed town territories.
“The territory included in the boundaries of Amberg, Athelstane, Beaver, Beecher, Dunbar, Goodman, Grover, Lake, Middle Inlet, Niagara, Pembine, Peshtigo, Porterfield, Pound, Silver Cliff, Stephenson, Wagner, and Wausaukee are hereby divided into three (3) classes of use districts”
Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)
Unincorporated portions of the 18 towns identified in Chapter 17.
Chapter 17 divides the listed town territories into Forestry, Recreation, and Unrestricted Districts.
The zoning map is incorporated into the chapter.
The chapter does not apply to incorporated villages and cities, and contains stated governmental and school-district exceptions.
“The territory included in the boundaries of Amberg, Athelstane, Beaver, Beecher, Dunbar, Goodman, Grover, Lake, Middle Inlet, Niagara, Pembine, Peshtigo, Porterfield, Pound, Silver Cliff, Stephenson, Wagner, and Wausaukee are hereby divided into three (3) classes of use districts as follows: (1) Forestry District. (2) Recreation District. (3) Unrestricted District.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Published (with conditions) — County zoning districts in the territories of the towns listed in Chapter 17, outside incorporated villages and cities.
County shoreland and other zoning setbacks in unincorporated Marinette County.
A permit is required before most buildings or structures are built, enlarged, altered, or moved.
A permit is also required before a change in use of an existing structure.
For certain nonconforming shoreland structures, horizontal expansion within the setback area is limited to 200 square feet over the life of the structure.
Additional side-yard, road-setback, mitigation, relocation, and ordinary-high-water-mark conditions apply.
maximum horizontal expansion within specified shoreland setback area: <= 200 square feet over the life of the structure (Applies to the specified nonconforming shoreland structures and is subject to the ordinance's other setback and mitigation conditions.)
“limited to a maximum of two hundred (200) square feet over the life of the structure”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
District specific (with conditions) — Applicable shoreland areas governed by Marinette County shoreland zoning.
“Structures from OHWM: * Structures 75 feet * Open sided structure (200 sq ft max) 35 feet if natural shoreline vegetation exists or shoreline habitat is restored”
Building heightSpecified
Certain nonconforming structures in county shoreland and zoning areas.
For principal structures located 0-35 feet from the ordinary high-water mark, vertical expansion may not increase height beyond 35 feet measured from lowest adjacent grade to highest point.
For non-shoreline-setback nonconformities, principal structures may be expanded provided they do not exceed 32 feet in height and the dimensional nonconformity is not increased.
maximum height for certain non-shoreline-setback nonconforming principal structures: <= 32 feet (The source states this applies to principal structures with non-shoreline setback nonconformities.) · maximum height for certain 0-35-foot shoreland nonconforming principal structures: <= 35 feet (Measured from the lowest adjacent grade to the highest point of the structure.)
“provided they don't exceed 32 feet in height”
Living in an RVLimited
RV and other camping-unit occupancy in designated Marinette County park campsites.
Camping is prohibited in county parks except designated areas.
A permit and prescribed fees are required.
No more than one recreational trailer or motor home may occupy one campsite.
A camping unit may not remain at a site more than 14 days in any four-week period unless seasonal camping has been reserved; after 14 days it must be removed for at least seven days.
This claim does not resolve private-land or municipal RV occupancy.
maximum stay: 14 days in any 4 week period (unless seasonal camping has been reserved) · minimum removal period: >= 7 days (after the 14-day period)
“No more than one recreational trailer or motor home, shall occupy any one campsite.”
Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)
Onsite waste disposal systems in Marinette County.
Marinette County Land Information/Sanitation regulates location, construction, installation, alteration, maintenance, and use of onsite waste disposal systems.
Wisconsin state statutes and plumbing code also supply applicable requirements.
“To regulate the location, construction, installation, alteration, maintenance and use of onsite waste disposal systems”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
County (with conditions) — Onsite wastewater systems in Marinette County.
“To regulate the location, construction, installation, alteration, maintenance and use of onsite waste disposal systems so as to protect the health of residents and transients and to secure safety from disease, nuisance and pestilence and for the protection of the groundwater resource.”
Septic inspectionRequired
All septic systems in Marinette County, including primary and secondary dwellings.
All owners of septic systems must participate in the Private Onsite Waste Treatment Systems Maintenance program.
Septic tanks should be inspected and/or pumped every three years.
The requirements apply to all septic systems and do not differentiate between primary and secondary dwellings.
The owner is ultimately responsible for ensuring operation and maintenance.
inspection or pumping interval: per 3 years
“all septic tanks should be inspected and/or pumped every three years.”
Permit feesVariable (with conditions)
Marinette County zoning permits.
The zoning permit fee is established by the County Board; no amount was stated in the opened Chapter 17 text.
“The Zoning Administrator or designee shall be responsible for issuing all Zoning Permits required by this chapter. The Zoning Permit fee shall be established by the County Board.”
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.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Marinette County, 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.”
Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Marinette County.
“A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
An owner obtaining construction and erosion-control permits for a dwelling covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.
The owner must occupy the home currently or will occupy it after completion.
The exemption permits the owner to take out the construction and erosion-control permits without the state-certified Dwelling Contractor and Dwelling Contractor Qualifier arrangement described for contractors.
The owner-occupancy statement must be checked on the permit application if the applicant does not possess Dwelling Contractor certification.
The source describes an owner-occupancy condition; it does not establish a general exemption for non-occupant owners.
“The construction and erosion control permits must be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor, who also employs a state-certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier, or by the owner who occupies the home currently or will after completion.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Available (with conditions) — Owner-occupants applying for a Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permit for a dwelling in Marinette County.
“without a Dwelling Contractor Certification”
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 of this dwelling for which I am applying for an erosion control or construction permit without a Dwelling Contractor Certification and have read the cautionary statement regarding contractor responsibility on the reverse side of the last ply of this form.”
Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
Public buildings, places of employment, and multifamily buildings subject to Wisconsin's commercial building code.
The Division of Industry Services reviews plans before construction for compliance with state statutes and building codes.
Local certified municipalities may provide plan review and inspection services for certain building types.
The Wisconsin Commercial Building Code adopted the 2021 ICC effective September 1, 2025; plans submitted November 1, 2025 or later must comply with the updated code.
Municipalities may have grandfathered fire detection, prevention, and suppression ordinances under 2013 Act 270.
2021 ICC adoption date: September 1, 2025 (The deadline for building plan compliance was delayed.) · updated-code plan-submission deadline: November 1, 2025 (Plans submitted on or after this date must comply with the updated Commercial Building Code.)
“2013 Act 270 establishes a uniform commercial building code in Wisconsin while allowing municipalities to grandfather fire detection, prevention, and suppression ordinances”
5 more reviewed findings on this topic
Adopted (with conditions) — Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code requirements for one- and two-family dwellings, including manufactured homes, applicable in Marinette County.
“UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two- Family Dwellings)”
Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwelling construction in Wisconsin, including Marinette County.
“The program governing one- and two-family dwelling units (including manufactured homes) is also called the UDC program, referring to the Uniform Dwelling Code. Enforces construction standards and inspection procedures including evaluation of building materials.”
Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings in Wisconsin built since June 1, 1980.
“The Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) is the statewide building code for one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980.”
Adopted (with conditions) — New Wisconsin one- and two-family dwelling construction, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations
“A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
Adopted — Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code, chapters SPS 320-325, for new one- and two-family dwelling units, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.
“SPS 320-325 Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), construction standard for 1-2 family dwelling units, applies uniformly statewide”
InspectionsRequired
Each phase of construction of a one- or two-family dwelling governed by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.
Inspections are called for before each phase is covered up.
The local inspector’s instructions apply.
The inspector has two business days after the inspection request and the work being ready to inspect before the work may be covered.
Inspections check compliance with the code and may also check compliance with approved plans.
The UDC is enforced by municipal or county building inspection departments or the Wisconsin Division of Industry Services.
inspection response period: 2 business days (After the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before the work may be covered up.)
“Call for inspections of each phase of construction prior to covering it up - check the local inspector’s instructions. The inspector has two business days after the date that you make the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before you may cover up the work. Inspectors will check for compliance with the code.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — New one- and two-family dwellings in Marinette County subject to the UDC.
“The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings. When ready for inspection, notify the inspector identified on your UDC permit.”
Required — New one- and two-family dwellings in Marinette 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 new UDC dwelling after final inspection.
Occupancy follows a final inspection with no major health or safety violations.
Some municipalities issue occupancy permits; the brochure does not state that every municipality must issue one.
The 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”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Occupancy of a dwelling governed by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code after construction.
“Take occupancy after receiving a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found. (Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits.) Also, the dwelling’s exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.”
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Statewide minimum shoreland standards for unincorporated land within 1,000 feet of a navigable lake, flowage, or pond, or within 300 feet of a navigable stream or the landward side of a floodplain, whichever is greater.
The standards must be met or exceeded in county shoreland zoning ordinances.
Many counties have adopted additional requirements that are not listed in the state summary.
Sewered lots require a minimum average width of 65 feet and minimum area of 10,000 square feet.
Unsewered lots require a minimum average width of 100 feet and minimum area of 20,000 square feet.
minimum lot area: 10000 sq ft (lots served by public sanitary sewer) · minimum average lot width: 65 feet (lots served by public sanitary sewer) · minimum lot area: 20000 sq ft (lots not served by public sanitary sewer) · minimum average lot width: 100 feet (lots not served by public sanitary sewer)
“Sewered lots must have a minimum average width of 65 feet and a minimum area of 10,000 square feet.”
Lot coverageSpecified
Impervious-surface coverage in the statewide shoreland framework and the DNR county model ordinance for qualifying shoreland lots or parcels.
The general standard applies to construction, reconstruction, expansion, replacement, or relocation of impervious surfaces within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark on riparian lots and parcels entirely within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark.
The general standard is 15 percent.
A lot or parcel may exceed 15 percent but not exceed 30 percent with a permit and mitigation plan.
For highly developed shorelines, counties are not required to adopt the special standards; if adopted, residential coverage may exceed 30 percent but not exceed 40 percent with a mitigation plan.
Treated impervious surfaces and defined roadways and sidewalks may be excluded from calculation when the ordinance conditions are met.
general impervious-surface limit: <= 15 percent of lot or parcel · maximum under general standard with mitigation: 30 percent of lot or parcel (permit and mitigation plan required) · highly developed shoreline residential maximum: 40 percent of lot or parcel (special standard adopted and mitigation plan required)
“The percentage of impervious surface allowed on a lot or parcel described under section 11.2 and as calculated under section 11.3 shall not exceed 15%.”
Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)
Occupancy of a manufactured home installed as a new one- or two-family dwelling in Wisconsin.
The Uniform Dwelling Code applies to new one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980.
The UDC includes manufactured homes and the installation of manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007.
Occupancy follows a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found.
Some municipalities issue occupancy permits.
The dwelling exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.
Local sanitary requirements may require certain plumbing systems.
Local zoning and land-use requirements may also apply.
UDC coverage start date: >= 1980-06-01 date (The cited coverage is for new one- and two-family dwellings and their additions and alterations.) · manufactured-home installation coverage start date: >= 2007-04-01 date · exterior completion deadline: <= 2 years after permit issuance
“The installation of manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007.”
Septic 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.”
Off-grid sanitationLimited
Sanitation for buildings with plumbing fixtures that are not connected to a public sewer in Wisconsin.
Off-grid wastewater handling must provide for treating, recycling, dispersing, or holding wastewater.
Private onsite wastewater treatment systems remain subject to Wisconsin POWTS requirements and applicable plan review or permits.
The rule does not establish unrestricted approval for any particular composting toilet, privy, holding tank, or other device.
“Where plumbing fixtures exist in a building that is not connected to a public sewer system, suitable provision shall be made for treating, recycling, dispersing or holding the wastewater.”
Well permitLimited
Construction of private wells statewide in Wisconsin.
A Well Construction Notification Number must be obtained before constructing a new private well that is not a high-capacity well.
Exceptions to the notification requirement include high-capacity wells, reconstruction of existing wells, and wells on Native American property; high-capacity wells or other wells requiring written DNR approval follow the approval requirements.
Some DNR-approved county ordinances additionally require a well permit before construction.
A Well Construction Report must be submitted to DNR within 30 days after construction.
well construction notification fee: 50.5 USD (Fee and notification number are not refundable or transferable.) · well construction report deadline: 30 days after construction
“Wisconsin law requires that a property owner provide advance notice to DNR before construction of any new private well that is not a high capacity well, and advance notice of any heat exchange drillhole construction (geothermal system) that does not require a written DNR approval.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — A UDC home using a private well.
“Obtain sanitary or well permits from the county or municipality if the home will use a private sewage system or 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.”
Building in a floodplainLimited
Development in Wisconsin floodplains, including floodway and floodfringe areas.
Floodplain development typically requires a land use permit and a building permit.
In the floodway, new structures, substantially improved or damaged structures, hazardous or solid-waste storage, and wells or sewage systems are prohibited.
Floodway development is limited to open-space uses with low flood-damage potential unless the stated analysis or FEMA map-revision condition is met.
Floodfringe structures must have the first floor elevated two feet above base flood elevation and have dryland access.
Substantially damaged structures are subject to the stated 50-percent threshold and applicable elevation or relocation requirements.
floodfringe first-floor elevation: >= 2 feet above base flood elevation (for all new and substantially damaged or improved structures in the floodfringe)
“In the floodway, new structures, substantially improved or damaged structures, the storage of hazardous/solid waste and wells/sewage systems are prohibited.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — Development within floodplain areas regulated by a Wisconsin community floodplain zoning ordinance based on the DNR model and state minimum standards.
“A land use permit shall be obtained before any development; repair, modification, or addition to an existing structure; or change in the use of a building or structure, including sewer and water facilities, may be initiated.”
Short-term rentalsLimited
Lodging rented to tourists or transients for short periods in Wisconsin, including homes, condos, cabins, cottages, and similar lodging facilities.
A DATCP lodging permit is required for all lodging facilities in Wisconsin.
A tourist or transient must be away from the person's permanent address.
The reviewed source does not establish local zoning or municipal operating restrictions.
“If lodging is rented to a tourist or transient, it will require a permit.”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
New one- and two-family dwelling units, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations, in Wisconsin, including Marinette County.
A UDC permit is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units.
If the municipality covering the project has delegated authority to issue permits, contact the municipality directly, except for state-owned buildings or land.
If the municipality lacks proper authority, submit the application to DSPS through eSLA.
The application must include a permit application, contractor license numbers and expiration dates, legible building plans, required data, and the permit application fee.
Required inspections listed by DSPS are footings, foundation and foundation reinforcement, rough, insulation, and final.
covered dwelling types: new one- and two-family dwelling units; stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations · required inspections: footings; foundation and foundation reinforcement; rough; insulation; final
“A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
5 more reviewed findings on this topic
Published (with conditions) — UDC permit application process for one- and two-family dwellings in Marinette County.
“Some municipalities do not utilize eSLA for permit applications”
Published (with conditions) — UDC permit applications for one- and two-family dwellings in Marinette County.
“The online building permit application is available by going to https://esla.wi.gov/PortalCommunityLogin and selecting the Uniform Dwelling Code Permits Tab. Note: You are NOT REQUIRED and should not create a user account to submit UDC permits.”
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.”
Published (with conditions) — DNR construction-site stormwater permit coverage for construction projects disturbing one or more acres.
“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.”
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 Marinette 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
Camping on your land
Tiny homes
Accessory dwellings
Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.
Living off-grid in Marinette County, Wisconsin
Is Marinette County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Marinette County scores 77/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 2,290 people within a 30-minute drive and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop.
Do you need a building permit in Marinette County, Wisconsin?
Marinette County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Marinette County Land Information — Sanitation. 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 Marinette County, Wisconsin?
Land in Marinette County runs about $5,176 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Marinette County?
Marinette County gets about 31.2" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 1.4% of years.
How remote is Marinette County?
A representative private-land location has about 2,290 people within a 30-minute drive and 518,119 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.
