Bolthole Index

Racine County, Wisconsin

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

32Index Score / 100
#72 of 72 in Wisconsin

A new one- or two-family home in Racine County, Wisconsin needs a Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) building permit from the municipality, or from Wisconsin DSPS where the municipality has not taken on the work1. Racine County Development Services issues zoning permits in unincorporated townships and the Village of Caledonia, and sanitary (septic) permits countywide2. An owner who will live in the home can apply without dwelling-contractor certification, but permits and inspections still apply3.

At a glance

Zoning permit
Required for most new structures in unincorporated townships and the Village of Caledonia4
Sanitary (POWTS) permit
Required before a zoning or building permit can issue on an unsewered parcel5
Building permit
Required for a new one- or two-family home; issued by a delegated municipality or Wisconsin DSPS6
Owner-builder path
An owner who will occupy the home may obtain construction and erosion-control permits, but other rules still apply3
Private well
Get a Wisconsin DNR notification number before construction and file a well construction report afterward7
Floodplain building
Typically needs land-use and building permits, with stricter floodway and floodfringe limits8
Final inspection
Occupancy follows a final inspection with no major health or safety violations9
Minimum lot (A-2 district)
40,000 square feet per family plus any acreage antipollution rules require, with 150 feet of width10

Who to call

Zoning

Racine County Development Services

Zoning permits for unincorporated townships and the Village of Caledonia, and POWTS/sanitary permits countywide, plus general zoning-district information for Racine County

262-886-8440

Septic permits

Racine County Development Services (Ives Grove Office Complex)

Physical office location, phone, and email for Racine County Development Services (Public Works and Development Services), which administers zoning and POWTS/sanitary permitting countywide

262-886-8440

rcpublicworks@racinecounty.gov

14200 Washington Avenue, Sturtevant, WI 53177

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

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

Yes. New one- and two-family homes in Racine County fall under Wisconsin's statewide Uniform Dwelling Code, which covers stick-built, modular and manufactured-home installations116. Apply to the municipality when it has taken on the work; otherwise the application goes to Wisconsin DSPS1. New homes need footing, foundation and foundation reinforcement, rough, insulation and final inspections; notify the inspector named on the UDC building permit12. Occupancy follows a final inspection that finds no major health or safety violations, and only some municipalities issue a separate occupancy permit; the exterior must be finished within 2 years after the permit is issued9. An owner-occupant may skip the dwelling-contractor certification by signing the owner-occupant attestation, which does not remove the permit or inspections3.

Who issues building permits in Racine County, and how do you reach them?

Inside Racine, the Village of Mount Pleasant, the Village of Raymond and the Village of Rochester, the municipality handles building permits13141516. Racine County Development Services issues POWTS sanitary permits countywide, including inside municipalities, and zoning permits for unincorporated townships and the Village of Caledonia2. The county office is at the Ives Grove Office Complex, 14200 Washington Avenue, Sturtevant, WI 53177; call 262-886-8440 or email rcpublicworks@racinecounty.gov17. For Village of Raymond zoning questions call 262-835-4426, and for Village of Caledonia zoning questions call 262-835-44512. Some municipalities do not use the state online system, so ask the municipality how to file the UDC application18.

Does Racine County have zoning?

Racine County Development Services administers general zoning in all unincorporated townships and issues zoning permits in the Village of Caledonia2. Racine, the Village of Mount Pleasant and the Village of Sturtevant have their own zoning ordinances, so the county district standards below do not apply to parcels there192021. Racine County Development Services still issues sanitary permits countywide2. In the county's A-2 general farming and residential district II, each family needs at least 40,000 square feet plus any acreage antipollution rules require, and the lot must be at least 150 feet wide10. In the R-8 planned residential district a one-family lot needs at least 8,000 square feet; the R-5 urban residential district (II) minimum is 7,200 square feet22. We could not confirm complete yard setbacks, minimum dwelling sizes, or agricultural exemptions; ask Development Services for the parcel's district and applicable standards2.

How do septic (POWTS) permits work in Racine County?

Racine County Development Services issues private onsite wastewater treatment system (POWTS) sanitary permits throughout Racine County, while Wisconsin DSPS regulates the POWTS program5223. Plans are required for a new POWTS and for replacement or added treatment, holding, or dispersal components; approved plan review is a condition of the local permit24. Any building using private sewage must have its sanitary permit before any local permit is issued24. Inspection of POWTS construction and installation is required under the plan-review approval letter; arrange it with the agency that issued the permit25. Existing systems must also be visually inspected at least once every 3 years26. USDA rates only 2.3% of Racine County's soils as "not limited" for conventional septic drain fields; that does not make septic impossible, but supports budgeting for site evaluation and potentially an engineered or alternative design27.

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

We could not confirm a general Racine County rule allowing or prohibiting RV or tiny-home occupancy on private land; ask Racine County Development Services about the proposed use and parcel's zoning district2. In Racine County floodfringe areas, an RV must be on site for less than 180 consecutive days and be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or meet elevation and anchoring requirements28. A dwelling covered by the statewide UDC still needs a building permit, including a manufactured-home installation; that approval does not establish local permission to occupy an RV or tiny home62.

How do you build on your land in Racine County, step by step?

  1. Ask Racine County Development Services for the parcel's zoning and sanitary requirements, and the municipality where to file the building-permit application218.
  2. For a building using private sewage, complete POWTS plan review and obtain the county sanitary permit before any local permit242.
  3. Obtain county zoning approval where applicable, then submit the UDC building-permit application with contractor license numbers and expiration dates, legible scaled or dimensioned plans, required project data, and the application fee229. An owner who occupies or will occupy the dwelling can complete the owner-occupant attestation without dwelling-contractor certification; building permits and inspections remain required3.
  4. Apply to the delegated municipality or Wisconsin DSPS otherwise; start construction after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted130.
  5. Notify the UDC permit's inspector for footing, foundation, rough, insulation, and final inspections, and arrange POWTS installation inspection with the sanitary-permit issuer1225. Take occupancy only after a final building inspection finds no major health or safety violations9.

What to check before you buy land in Racine County, Wisconsin?

USDA rates only 2.3% of Racine County soils as "not limited" for a conventional drain field; septic may still be feasible, but a site evaluation and potentially an engineered POWTS belong in the purchase budget27. For a private well, obtain a Wisconsin DNR notification number before construction and submit a well construction report afterward; most work requires licensed well drillers and pump installers7. Floodplain development typically needs land-use and building permits: floodways prohibit new structures, wells, and sewage systems, while qualifying floodfringe structures need dryland access and a first floor at least 2 feet above base flood elevation8. Shoreland buildings generally need a 75-foot setback from the ordinary high-water mark31. A driveway connecting to a state highway needs a WisDOT connection permit32. Farmland averages about $9,656 an acre, and the median property-tax bill is about $4,071 a year3334.

Watch-outs

  • County zoning approval is separate from the UDC building permit, and an unsewered parcel needs its sanitary permit before zoning or building permits can issue2.
  • We could not confirm current county zoning or sanitary permit fees; ask Racine County Development Services for the applicable schedule before budgeting17.

Sources

  1. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  2. Racine County Development Services (racinecounty.gov)
  3. Instructions for Submitting a UDC Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  4. Racine County Code of Ordinances (2026 county census)
  5. Racine County Development Services - FAQ (2026 county census)
  6. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  7. Water Overview, quoted and re-checked
  8. Floodplain Development Basics, quoted and re-checked
  9. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  10. Sec. 20-677. Area requirements, A-2, quoted and re-checked
  11. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  12. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  13. Racine: City of Racine Building Permit Application (Racine County), quoted and re-checked
  14. Village of Mount Pleasant: Chapter 14, Article I — Buildings and Building Regulations (Racine County), quoted and re-checked
  15. Village of Raymond: Village Of Raymond Building Permit Checklist (Racine County), quoted and re-checked
  16. Village of Rochester: 11-6 Permit Required (Racine County), quoted and re-checked
  17. Racine County Development Services (Ives Grove Office Complex) (racinecounty.gov)
  18. Instructions for Submitting a UDC Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  19. Racine: Racine Code § 114-276, R1 yard requirements (Racine County), quoted and re-checked
  20. Village of Mount Pleasant: Village of Mount Pleasant, WI Code of Ordinances (Racine County), quoted and re-checked
  21. Village of Sturtevant: Code of Ordinances, Chapter 17, Sec. 17.50, Permitted uses and conditional uses (Racine County), quoted and re-checked
  22. Sec. 20-437. Area requirements, R-8, quoted and re-checked
  23. Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS), quoted and re-checked
  24. Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS) - DSPS, quoted and re-checked
  25. Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS), quoted and re-checked
  26. Wisconsin Maintenance Program (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. 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
  28. Sec. 20.1-2.4. Public or private campgrounds, quoted and re-checked
  29. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  30. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Wisconsin’s Shoreland Management Program (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  32. State highway connection permits (driveways & more) (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data
  34. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data

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

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleRacine CountyKenosha CountyMilwaukee CountyWaukesha CountyWalworth CountyOzaukee CountyWashington County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesNo
Septic permitsCounty Public Works & Development ServicesCounty Div. of Planning & DevelopmentNot publishedCounty Dept. of Parks & Land UseCounty Land Use & Resource Management Dept.County Land & Water Management Dept.County Land Resources Div.

County locator

Racine County in Wisconsin

32
County map
Racine County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score

How Racine County scores

Seclusion8100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency52100% ev.
Admin Boringness44100% ev.
Durability77100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost54100% 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 →

$317kTypical home
1.7%Property tax
$9,656Land / acre
35.3"Annual rain
6.5% of yrsSevere drought
1.7 / yr (+1.7)Mid-century 100°F days
13.4 daysMid-century dry spell
1.69" (+8.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.66×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,155Home insurance / yr
1.2% / yrInsurance growth
0.73%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
642,474People within 30 min
12,859,160People within 2 hr
342,847Radius comparison (15 mi)
591.1People / sq mi
0.3%Federal land
96.4%Land at 15% slope or less
2.3%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
4,778 acWorkable land screen
25.4%Wooded land
29.4 tonsBiomass / forest ac
47.7°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Racine 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: Burlington · Town of Burlington · Village of Caledonia · Town of Dover · Village of Elmwood Park · Village of North Bay · Town of Norway · Village of Union Grove · Town of Waterford · Village of Waterford · Village of Wind Point · Village of Yorkville

Answers from the rulebook for Racine County

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

Racine County rules

  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    County R-8 planned residential and R-5 urban residential district (II).

    • R-8 minimum lot area differs by dwelling type.
    • The cited R-5 requirement is for the urban residential district (II).

    R-8 row-house lot area: >= 4000 square feet · R-8 one-family dwelling lot area: >= 8000 square feet · R-5 lot area: >= 7200 square feet

    “Lot Area Minimum 4,000 sq. feet per row-house 8,000 sq. feet for one-family dwellings”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — County A-2 general farming and residential district II.
      “Lot Width Minimum 150 feet Area Minimum 40,000 sq. feet per family plus such acreage as is required by antipollution regulations or ordinances”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Mobile recreational vehicles in Racine County floodfringe areas and public or private campgrounds regulated by the county floodplain ordinance.

    • In campgrounds, the vehicle must be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or may occupy a site for no more than 180 consecutive days and must then be removed from the floodplain for at least 24 hours, or must meet the applicable floodplain-district structural requirements.
    • In floodfringe areas, mobile recreational vehicles must be on site for less than 180 consecutive days and be fully licensed and ready for highway use or meet specified elevation and anchoring requirements.

    maximum campground occupancy period: <= 180 days (Removal from the floodplain for a minimum of 24 hours is required afterward.) · floodfringe site period: < 180 consecutive days (Vehicles meeting specified elevation and anchoring requirements are an alternative.)

    “All mobile recreational vehicles placed on site must meet one (1) of the following: (a) Be fully licensed, if required, and ready for highway use; (b) Not occupy any site in the campground for more than one hundred eighty (180) consecutive days, at which time the recreational vehicle must be removed from the floodplain for a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours; or (c) Meet the requirements in either sections 20.1-3.0 , 20.1-4.0 , or 20.1-5.1 , for the floodplain district in which the structure is located.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent

    Racine County Development Services issues zoning permits for structures in unincorporated areas and the Village of Caledonia under the county zoning ordinance.

    Racine County Code of Ordinances ↗Scouted from the county site, not yet independently re-checked

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 Racine County and statewide 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 — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Racine 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.”
    • Required — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Racine 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.”
  • 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner-occupant applying for a Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permit for a dwelling.
      “You will leave those areas blank. At Step 5, you will check the box above your electronic signature which states “I vouch that I am or will be an owner-occupant of this dwelling for which I am applying for an erosion control or construction permit without a Dwelling Contractor Certification and have read the cautionary statement regarding contractor responsibility on the reverse side of the last ply of this form.””
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner-occupant applying for a Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permit in Racine County.
      “You will leave those areas blank. At Step 5, you will check the box above your electronic signature which states “I vouch that I am or will be an owner-occupant of this dwelling for which I am applying for an erosion control or construction permit without a Dwelling Contractor Certification and have read the cautionary statement regarding contractor responsibility on the reverse side of the last ply of this form.””
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner-occupant applying for a Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permit for a dwelling in Racine County.
      “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”
    6 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted — New one- and two-family dwelling units in Wisconsin, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured-home installations.
      “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) — Wisconsin one- and two-family dwelling construction, including manufactured homes, applicable in Racine 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) — Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code governing one- and two-family dwelling units, including manufactured homes, in Racine 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.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

    Occupancy of UDC-regulated new one- and two-family dwellings in Racine County.

    • Occupancy follows a final inspection finding no major health or safety violations.
    • Some municipalities issue occupancy permits; the state source does not require a certificate of occupancy in every municipality.
    • 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 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.”
  • 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.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Buildings and structures in unincorporated Wisconsin shoreland zoning areas measured from the ordinary high water mark.

    • The standard applies in the shoreland zone and is implemented through county shoreland zoning ordinances.
    • Exceptions include piers, boat-hoists, fishing rafts, utilities, walkways, stairways or rail systems, decks or gazebos complying with s. 59.692(1v), and boathouses.
    • If an existing pattern of development exists, counties may allow new homes closer than 75 feet through setback averaging.
    • Counties may adopt additional requirements.

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

    “All buildings and structures must be set back at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark.”
  • 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)

    Private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Wisconsin, including Racine County.

    • DSPS regulates the POWTS program.
    • Local municipality or county issues the local permit when applicable.
    • Local permit issuance is conditional on approved plan review.
    “See the local municipality or county covering your project location. However, a local permit is conditional on an approved plan review.”
    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 permitRequired

    Installation or construction of a private onsite wastewater treatment system (POWTS), and replacement or addition of POWTS treatment, holding, or dispersal components, including projects in Racine County.

    • Plans must be submitted for POWTS installation or construction and for replacement or addition of treatment, holding, and dispersal components.
    • When submitted plans comply with DSPS requirements, a conditional approval letter grants permission to start construction pending local permitting requirements.
    • A local permit is conditional on approved plan review.
    • State-owned POWTS applications are submitted to DSPS; otherwise, submission may be to a delegated county or municipality, or to DSPS when the local agency lacks authority.
    • The DSPS page states that POWTS serving a single one- or two-family dwelling using an approved component manual and gravity distribution to an in-ground distribution cell, and product-approved holding tanks complying with a component manual, should always be submitted to the local government unit with jurisdiction.
    “State statutes require any building that uses a private sewage system to have a sanitary permit for such a system before any local permit is issued.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Large private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Wisconsin.
      “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.”
  • 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 permitRequired

    Construction of private wells serving property in Racine County.

    • A DNR notification number is required before construction.
    • A well construction report must be submitted afterward.
    • Most construction must be performed by licensed well drillers and pump installers.
    • Additional regulations apply to systems with combined capability of 70 or more gallons per minute.
    • A county may separately have a private-well permit ordinance, but no Racine County ordinance was verified.

    high-capacity threshold: >= 70 gallons per minute (additional regulations apply)

    “If you are constructing a private well on your property, you are required to obtain a notification number from the DNR prior to construction and a well construction report must be submitted afterwards.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Construction of private wells statewide in Wisconsin.
      “Wisconsin law requires that a property owner provide advance notice to DNR before construction of any new private well that is not a high capacity well, and advance notice of any heat exchange drillhole construction (geothermal system) that does not require a written DNR approval.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupWater and sewer (with conditions)

    Pre-installation water and sewer systems in a manufactured/mobile home park in Wisconsin.

    • Pre-installation plumbing-system plan review is required.
    • Submitted plans must comply with the Wisconsin Plumbing Code.
    • A conditional approval letter gives permission to start construction.
    • Local permitting requirements remain pending.
    “Pre-installation plan review of the water and sewer systems in a manufactured/mobile home park is required as a plumbing system plan review via esla.wi.gov.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Wisconsin farmland preservation zoning districts and farmland preservation agreements; these are conditional agricultural-use protections and tax-credit frameworks, not a blanket exemption from local land-use or land-division ordinances.

    • Certified farmland preservation zoning districts limit land uses to agriculture and other compatible uses.
    • Local ordinances are crafted locally and must meet or be more restrictive than Chapter 91 standards.
    • A farmland preservation agreement requires land to remain in agricultural use for 10 years and comply with state soil and water conservation standards.
    • Agreement eligibility requires ownership of the farmland, location in a designated Agricultural Enterprise Area, at least $6,000 gross farm revenue during the last year or $18,000 during the last three years, and compliance with applicable conservation standards.
    • A certificate of compliance from the county land conservation committee is required to show compliance.
    • Other local zoning and land-division ordinances continue to apply.
    • A covered agreement provides exemption from special assessments for sanitary sewer or water imposed by specified local governmental entities.
    • Releases before expiration require written consent, a DATCP finding that agricultural use of other protected farmland will not be impaired, and payment of the specified conversion fee.

    farmland preservation agreement term: 10 years (agreements effective before December 8, 2023, were minimum 15-year agreements) · minimum gross farm revenue during last year: >= 6000 USD (alternative test of $18,000 during the last three years) · minimum gross farm revenue during last three years: >= 18000 USD (alternative to the $6,000 last-year test) · tax credit: $10.00 per acre or $12.50 per acre if also in a certified farmland preservation zoning district (other eligibility requirements apply)

    “Remember that other local ordinances (such as zoning and land division ordinances) continue to apply to your land, regardless of whether you sign an agreement.”
  • 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 floodplainRequired

    Development in Wisconsin floodplains, including applicable property in Racine County.

    • Floodplain development typically requires a land-use permit and building permit.
    • In floodways, new structures, substantially improved or damaged structures, hazardous or solid-waste storage, and wells or sewage systems are prohibited.
    • Floodway development requires an approved encroachment analysis showing no change in base flood elevation or an approved FEMA Letter of Map Revision.
    • In floodfringes, new and substantially damaged or improved structures must have the first floor elevated two feet above base flood elevation and have dryland access.
    • Local zoning-administrator requirements may apply.

    floodfringe elevation: 2 feet above base flood elevation (new and substantially damaged or improved structures)

    “Development is allowed in the floodplain and typically only requires a land use permit and a building permit, but restrictions may apply.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Development in Wisconsin floodplains, including floodway and floodfringe areas.
      “In the floodway, new structures, substantially improved or damaged structures, the storage of hazardous/solid waste and wells/sewage systems are prohibited.”
    • 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 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.”
    4 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Partial — Wisconsin UDC permit applications, including projects in Racine County.
      “Some municipalities do not utilize eSLA for permit applications and therefore do not appear on the DSPS Online Building Permit System. Please contact the respective municipality for proper application procedures.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Wisconsin UDC permit-submission process applicable to new one- and two-family dwellings in Racine County.
      “Regardless of which agency has authority, your application must include: 1. Permit application. This may be electronic or paper, depending on the agency. 2. Contractor license numbers and expiration dates. 3. Legible building plans with scale or dimensions.”
    • 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 Racine 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

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Local zoning — Aggregate local zoning across Racine County municipalities and unincorporated areas.

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 Racine County, Wisconsin

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

Racine County scores 32/100 on the Bolthole Index, a marginal county profile. Its strengths: mixed durability signals and a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop. Watch-outs: about 642,474 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Racine County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Racine County Public Works and Development Services (POWTS/sanitary permits, under WI DSPS). 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 Racine County, Wisconsin?

Land in Racine County runs about $9,656 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Racine County?

Racine County gets about 35.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 6.5% of years.

How remote is Racine County?

A representative private-land location has about 642,474 people within a 30-minute drive and 12,859,160 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 Racine compares in Wisconsin

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