Bolthole Index

Trempealeau County, Wisconsin

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

64Index Score / 100
#50 of 72 in Wisconsin

Trempealeau County, Wisconsin requires building and land-use/zoning permits for a new home, with applications returned to the Department of Land Management after the required local signatures12. A private septic system needs a county sanitary permit, while some system plans also need state review34. Town, village or city requirements may add another layer5.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for a new home and specified residential alterations, additions, cabins and detached garages1
Zoning permit
Required for homes, home additions, sheds, decks and accessory structures6
Septic (POWTS) permit
County sanitary permit required; a licensed plumber submits the application4
Owner-builder
An owner who occupies or will occupy the home may take out construction and erosion-control permits7
RV or tiny-home living
Private-land occupancy rules were not confirmed; ask Land Management before placing or occupying a unit8
Private well
A private-well home needs a well permit from the applicable county or municipality9
Minimum lot size
Varies by town in unincorporated areas; confirm the parcel-specific standard10

Who to call

Building permits

Trempealeau County Department of Land Management

Land-use/zoning, UDC building and manufactured-home permits in Trempealeau County

715-538-2311 ext. 223

18600 Hobson Street, Whitehall, WI 54773-8614

Septic permits

Trempealeau County Department of Land Management — POWTS

County sanitary permits for private onsite wastewater treatment systems and specified non-plumbing sanitation systems

715-538-2311 ext. 223

18600 Hobson Street, Whitehall, WI 54773-8614

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on October 10, 2026.

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

Yes. Trempealeau County requires a building permit for a home, an alteration or addition to a home, a cabin or a detached garage1. A land-use/zoning permit is also required for a home, home addition, shed, deck or accessory structure6. Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code supplies the construction standards and inspection procedures for new one- and two-family dwellings, including manufactured homes11. Ask Land Management about barns, agricultural structures or another building type before starting because the confirmed residential permit categories do not answer every structure type58. An owner who currently occupies or will occupy the home may take out the construction and erosion-control permits, but that owner-builder allowance does not waive permits, inspections or code compliance7.

Who is the Trempealeau County building department, and how do you reach it?

The Trempealeau County Department of Land Management is the county contact for land-use/zoning, UDC building and manufactured-home permits8. Call 715-538-2311 ext. 223 or visit 18600 Hobson Street, Whitehall, WI 54773-86148. Before construction, earth moving, filling or grading, contact Land Management; new-home applicants should request the New Home Building Packet2. Completed applications need the applicant's and town chair's or clerk's signatures and must be returned with fees to Land Management, while local town, village or city requirements may also apply12. New one- and two-family homes require footing, foundation and reinforcement, rough-work, insulation and final inspections; request each inspection from the inspector named on the UDC permit13. If a driveway connects to a state highway, Wisconsin Department of Transportation requires a separate connection permit14.

Does Trempealeau County have zoning?

Yes. Trempealeau County has county zoning and requires land-use/zoning permits for homes, additions, sheds, decks and accessory structures6. Minimum lot size varies by town in unincorporated areas, and the county's published schedule ranges from 1 acre to 2 acres, with a half-acre sanitary-district exception in Arcadia, Burnside and Lincoln10. The Town of Trempealeau follows the county zoning ordinance, but most requests require both a county application and a town application15. Ask Land Management for the parcel's district, setbacks, height limits and allowed uses; a countywide minimum dwelling size was not confirmed8. Shoreland buildings generally must be at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark, subject to listed exceptions and setback averaging16. Floodway rules prohibit new structures, wells and sewage systems17.

How do septic permits work in Trempealeau County?

Trempealeau County's Department of Land Management administers sanitary permits for private onsite wastewater treatment systems, commonly called POWTS or septic systems318. Start with a soil test; after it is complete, a licensed plumber designs the POWTS and submits the sanitary permit application to the county4. Conventional and holding-tank plans may go to the county, while other system plans go to the state agency for review3. Only about 7.5% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional septic drain field, so make the soil evaluation a purchase contingency rather than assuming a conventional system will fit19. Wisconsin requires privately owned wastewater systems to be visually inspected at least once every 3 years, with counties operating the maintenance-tracking programs20. Off-grid wastewater is not exempt: a building with plumbing that is not connected to public sewer still needs suitable treatment, recycling, dispersal or holding of wastewater21.

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

We could not confirm a county rule that generally allows or prohibits living in an RV on private land in Trempealeau County, so ask the Department of Land Management about the parcel's zoning district, duration limits and sanitation requirements before moving an RV onto it8. Wisconsin's state-park campsite rules apply to state park properties and do not answer private-land RV occupancy in Trempealeau County22. We also could not confirm a countywide tiny-home occupancy rule or minimum dwelling size; a site-built tiny home intended as a dwelling remains subject to the applicable permit, zoning and sanitation reviews232421. A manufactured home is a clearer category: Trempealeau County requires a permit to locate or replace one, and Wisconsin's UDC covers installation of manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007825.

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

  1. Call Land Management at 715-538-2311 ext. 223 before construction or grading; request the New Home Building Packet and confirm zoning, floodplain, shoreland and local approvals82.
  2. Verify the town's minimum lot size and whether a land division needs county review10.
  3. Arrange the soil test, then have a licensed plumber design the POWTS and submit the sanitary permit application to the county4.
  4. Complete the county land-use/zoning and building applications, obtain the applicant and town chair or clerk signatures, and return the applications and fees to Land Management12. An owner who occupies or will occupy the home may pull the construction and erosion-control permits7.
  5. Obtain the required private-well permit from the applicable county or municipality, and obtain a WisDOT connection permit if access will connect to a state highway914.
  6. Request the required inspections from the inspector named on the UDC permit13. Take occupancy after a final inspection finds no major health or safety violations26.

What should you check before buying land in Trempealeau County?

Confirm the parcel's zoning district, allowed use, setbacks, floodplain status and shoreland constraints with Land Management before making the purchase nonrefundable68. Check the town-specific minimum lot size and public-road-frontage requirement; private access easements do not substitute for public road frontage under the county's parcel-development requirements10. Make an acceptable soil test part of the deal because only about 7.5% of county soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field19. Identify the authority for any private-well permit and confirm legal driveway access, especially on a state highway where a WisDOT connection permit is required914. Trempealeau County's effective property-tax rate is about 1.6%, and its median annual property-tax bill is about $3,2692728. Farmland value is about $4,892 per acre29.

Watch-outs

  • A county building permit is not the whole approval path: Trempealeau County separately requires land-use/zoning approval for common residential projects and tells applicants to ask their town, village or city about additional requirements65.
  • A new home using private septic cannot receive its building permit until the sanitary permit has been issued, so complete the soil test and POWTS design early304.
  • Private-land RV occupancy, tiny-home occupancy and countywide minimum dwelling size were not confirmed; ask Land Management about the exact parcel and proposed use before buying or placing a unit8.

Sources

  1. Building Construction, quoted and re-checked
  2. Building Construction, quoted and re-checked
  3. Sanitary (POWTS), quoted and re-checked
  4. Sanitary (POWTS), quoted and re-checked
  5. Building Construction, quoted and re-checked
  6. Department of Land Management, quoted and re-checked
  7. Instructions for Submitting a UDC Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  8. Trempealeau County Department of Land Management (co.trempealeau.wi.us)
  9. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  10. Trempealeau County Requirements for Parcel Development, quoted and re-checked
  11. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  12. Building Construction, quoted and re-checked
  13. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings), quoted and re-checked
  14. State highway connection permits (driveways & more) (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  15. Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  16. Wisconsin’s Shoreland Management Program (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Floodplain Development Basics (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  18. Trempealeau County Department of Land Management — POWTS (co.trempealeau.wi.us)
  19. 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
  20. Wisconsin Maintenance Program (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  21. Wisconsin Administrative Code, SPS 382 (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  22. Camping Rules — Wisconsin State Park System (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  23. Building Construction (2026 county census)
  24. Department of Land Management (2026 county census)
  25. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  26. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  27. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  28. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  29. Farmland value per acre (USDA census): Bolthole Index county data
  30. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

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.

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Compared with neighboring counties

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

RuleTrempealeau CountyBuffalo CountyEau Claire CountyJackson CountyPepin CountyLa Crosse CountyClark County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesNoYesYes
Septic permitsCounty Dept. of Land ManagementCounty Land ManagementCounty Health Dept.County Zoning/POWTS Dept.County Land Conservation & Planning Dept.County ZoningCounty Planning

County locator

Trempealeau County in Wisconsin

64
County map
Trempealeau County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score

How Trempealeau County scores

Seclusion40100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency63100% ev.
Admin Boringness44100% ev.
Durability64100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost65100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$278kTypical home
1.6%Property tax
$4,892Land / acre
35.3"Annual rain
3.5% of yrsSevere drought
1.9 / yr (+1.9)Mid-century 100°F days
13.9 daysMid-century dry spell
1.81" (+10.9%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.72×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,322Home insurance / yr
4.3% / yrInsurance growth
0.77%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
88,475People within 30 min
2,676,852People within 2 hr
20,883Radius comparison (15 mi)
42.2People / sq mi
1.1%Federal land
46%Land at 15% slope or less
7.5%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
34,006 acWorkable land screen
41.1%Wooded land
41.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
45.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Trempealeau County

Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.

Town of Albion · Arcadia · Town of Arcadia · Blair · Town of Burnside · Town of Caledonia · Town of Chimney Rock · Town of Dodge · Village of Eleva · Town of Ettrick · Village of Ettrick · Town of Gale · Galesville · Town of Hale · Independence · Town of Lincoln · Osseo · Town of Pigeon · Village of Pigeon Falls · Town of Preston · Village of Strum · Town of Sumner · Town of Trempealeau · Village of Trempealeau · Town of Unity · Whitehall

Answers from the rulebook for Trempealeau County

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

Trempealeau County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Construction, new houses, additions or alterations, and structures within the county page’s stated permit categories.

    • The county page states that applications must be completely filled out and signed by the applicant and Town Chairman or Clerk.
    • Applicants must contact local municipal officials for additional requirements.
    • Applications and fees are returned to the county Department of Land Management.
    “Building Permits: are required if you are building a home, an alteration or addition to a home, cabin or a detached garage. Please review UNIFORM DWELLING CODE - CHAPTER 23 for detailed explanation of permit requirements. The permits must be filled out completely and signed by the applicant and the Town Chairman or Clerk.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction of a home, alteration or addition to a home, cabin, or detached garage in Trempealeau County.
      “Building Permits: are required if you are building a home, an alteration or addition to a home, cabin or a detached garage. Please review UNIFORM DWELLING CODE - CHAPTER 23 for detailed explanation of permit requirements. The permits must be filled out completely and signed by the applicant and the Town Chairman or Clerk.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    UDC inspections for new one- and two-family dwellings where Trempealeau County is the delegated inspection authority.

    • Required inspection phases are footings, foundation and reinforcement, rough work, insulation, and final.
    • The state page directs applicants to the delegated-agent list to determine the responsible inspection authority.
    “The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County zoning and land-use regulation in Trempealeau County.

    • The county page identifies a Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance and requires land use/zoning permits for specified construction.
    • Municipal requirements may also apply.
    “The following permits are required in Trempealeau County if you are doing any construction, building a new house, adding on to an existing house or structure or locating/replacing a manufactured home in the County: Land Use/Zoning Permits: are required if you are building a home, an addition to a home, a shed, deck or any accessory structure.”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential parcel development in the unincorporated areas of Trempealeau County, with minimum lot sizes varying by listed town.

    • The county document identifies these as lot requirements and separately states that the Trempealeau County Subdivision Ordinance applies to all unincorporated areas.
    • Towns of Arcadia, Burnside, and Lincoln receive the stated half-acre exception if hooked up to a sanitary district.
    • Private access easements are not a substitute for public road frontage.
    • A Certified Survey Map is required for land divisions of less than 20 acres and must be reviewed and approved by the Department of Land Management before recording.
    • Only one single-family dwelling unit is permitted per lot.

    Albion minimum lot size: >= 2 acres · Arcadia minimum lot size within 1.5 miles of city: >= 1 acre (Half acre if hooked up to sanitary district) · Arcadia minimum lot size all other areas: >= 2 acres (Half acre if hooked up to sanitary district) · Burnside minimum lot size: >= 1.5 acres (Half acre if hooked up to sanitary district) · Caledonia minimum lot size: >= 2 acres · Chimney Rock minimum lot size: >= 2 acres · Dodge minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · Ettrick minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · Gale minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · Hale minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · Lincoln minimum lot size: >= 1.5 acres (Half acre if hooked up to sanitary district) · Pigeon minimum lot size: >= 2 acres · Preston minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · Sumner minimum lot size: >= 1.5 acres · Trempealeau town minimum lot size: >= 1 acre · Unity minimum lot size: >= 2 acres

    “(*Towns of Arcadia, Burnside and Lincoln – half acre if hooked up to Sanitary District). [...] Albion 2 Acres [...] Arcadia* 1 acre- within 1 ½ mile/city [...] 2 acres-all other areas Burnside* 1.5 Acres [...] Caledonia 2 Acres [...] Chimney Rock 2 Acres [...] Dodge 1 Acre [...] Ettrick 1 Acre [...] Gale 1 Acre [...] Hale 1 Acre [...] Lincoln* 1.5 Acre [...] Pigeon 2 Acres [...] Preston 1 Acre [...] Sumner 1.5 Acres [...] Trempealeau 1 Acre [...] Unity 2 Acres [...] The Trempealeau County Subdivision Ordinance is in effect for all of the unincorporated areas of Trempealeau County.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Private onsite wastewater treatment systems and sanitary permits in Trempealeau County.

    • The county administers the adopted sanitary and private sewage system ordinance.
    • A licensed plumber submits the state sanitary permit application to the county.
    • Some system plans must be submitted to the state Department of Commerce/DSPS rather than the county.
    “Contact a licensed plumber to have them fill out and submit the state sanitary permit application to the county. Before a state sanitary permit can be submitted the licensed plumber must design the POWTS. Conventional and holding tank plans can be submitted to the county, all other system plans need to be submitted to the Dept. of Commerce, Safety and Buildings Division.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of a septic/POWTS system in Trempealeau County.

    • A soil test is the first step.
    • A licensed plumber must design the POWTS and submit the sanitary permit application.
    • Conventional and holding-tank plans may be submitted to the county; other plans go to the state agency.
    “Once the soil test is complete the next step in installing a septic system (POWTS) is to get a sanitary permit. Contact a licensed plumber to have them fill out and submit the state sanitary permit application to the county.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Installation, reconnection, repair, privies, portable rest rooms, chemical toilets, and incinerating toilets covered by the Trempealeau County POWTS program.
      “the next step in installing a septic system (POWTS) is to get a sanitary permit.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County Department of Land Management permit process for construction and manufactured-home work.

    • Contact the Department before construction, earth moving, filling, or grading.
    • New-home applicants should request a New Home Building Packet.
    • Applications must be complete, signed, and returned with fees to the Department.
    • Local Town, Village, or City requirements may also apply.
    “Important! - Prior to doing any construction, earth moving, filling or grading in Trempealeau County please contact the Department of Land Management for information on any applicable local regulations. If you are building a New Home please contact the Department of Land Management and request that a New Home Building Packet be sent to you.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — County building-permit process for construction and residential work in Trempealeau County.
      “Return all applications to the Trempealeau County Department of Land Management.”

Wisconsin rules that apply here

  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

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

    • The owner must occupy the home currently or will occupy it after completion.
    • The exemption permits the owner to take out the construction and erosion-control permits without the state-certified Dwelling Contractor and Dwelling Contractor Qualifier arrangement described for contractors.
    • The owner-occupancy statement must be checked on the permit application if the applicant does not possess Dwelling Contractor certification.
    • The source describes an owner-occupancy condition; it does not establish a general exemption for non-occupant owners.
    “The construction and erosion control permits must be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor, who also employs a state-certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier, or by the owner who occupies the home currently or will after completion.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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 in Trempealeau County.
      “A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwelling construction, including manufactured homes, in Trempealeau 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”
  • Certificate of occupancyLimited

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

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

    exterior completion deadline: 2 years after permit issuance

    “Take occupancy after receiving a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found. (Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits.) Also, the dwelling’s exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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 home using a private well in Wisconsin, including Trempealeau County.
      “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 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.”
  • Campground & park staysLimited

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inside cities and towns in Trempealeau County

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

  • Local zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Zoning in the Town of Trempealeau, a municipality within Trempealeau County.

    • This source identifies the Town of Trempealeau's zoning ordinance but does not establish the zoning rules, district standards, or whether additional county applicability conditions apply.
    “The Town does follow the Trempealeau County zoning code of ordinances and most requests require a county application as well as a town application.”

Set by your township or city, not the county

In Wisconsin, zoning is adopted by each township or city, so Trempealeau County has no county-wide answer on these. Find your township or city in the list of places on this page, or call its clerk or zoning administrator.

  • Minimum dwelling size
  • Living in an RV
  • Camping on your land
  • Tiny homes
  • Accessory dwellings

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Trempealeau County, Wisconsin

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

Trempealeau County scores 64/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and manageable long-term carry cost. Watch-outs: about 88,475 people within a 30-minute drive.

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

Trempealeau County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Trempealeau County Department of Land Management. 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 Trempealeau County, Wisconsin?

Land in Trempealeau County runs about $4,892 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Trempealeau County?

Trempealeau County gets about 35.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.5% of years.

How remote is Trempealeau County?

A representative private-land location has about 88,475 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,676,852 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 Trempealeau compares in Wisconsin

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