Building permits, zoning and land rules in Waushara County, Wisconsin
70Index Score / 100 #36 of 72 in Wisconsin
Unincorporated Waushara County, Wisconsin requires a county land-use permit, a sanitary permit and a UDC building permit for a new dwelling.1 The County Zoning Office handles zoning outside city and village limits and issues septic permits wherever municipal sewer is unavailable.23 The Village of Wild Rose runs its own building permits and zoning.45
At a glance
Building permit
County land-use, sanitary and UDC permits are required for new dwellings in unincorporated areas1
Land-use permit
Apply first; include plans, a site plan and a current tax bill. A principal structure costs $22567
Zoning
County zoning applies in unincorporated areas of all 18 townships, with a limited Town of Warren exception2
Septic
County Zoning Office permit outside municipal sewer service38
Owner-builder
An owner-occupant may apply for a UDC permit without Dwelling Contractor Certification; code and permits still apply9
Minimum home size
720 sq. ft.; 1,200 sq. ft. in the Town of Deerfield10
RV living
Temporary stays only: under 50 nonconsecutive days a year and no more than 10 consecutive days; one year while building a home1112
Private well
Advance notice to Wisconsin DNR is required before most new private-well construction13
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Do you need a building permit in Waushara County, Wisconsin?
Yes. A new dwelling or an alteration to an existing dwelling in unincorporated Waushara County requires a county land-use permit, a sanitary permit and a UDC building permit.1 County land-use permits also cover buildings, structural alterations, additions, decks, retaining walls, patios and similar improvements.14 The land-use exception applies only when the work is under both 150 square feet and $2,000 in market value, and setback rules still apply when the work qualifies.115 Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code governs one- and two-family homes, including manufactured homes, and the enforcing authority can be delegated to a municipality.16 The county's inspection program lists the Town of Warren, Village of Wild Rose and City of Wautoma as exceptions, so applicants there should confirm the correct UDC authority before filing.17 Inside the Village of Wild Rose, the village's own Building Inspector issues building permits through the Clerk-Treasurer.4
Who issues building and land-use permits in Waushara County?
Waushara County Building Code and Inspections administers the county UDC program and accepts building-permit applications online; call 920-787-6510.18 The Waushara County Land Conservation & Zoning Office handles the separate land-use application at 380 S. Townline Rd. in Wautoma and can be reached at 920-787-0453 or lcd.zoning@wausharacountywi.gov.19 The county publishes land-use permit fees of $225 for a principal structure, $150 for an addition or alteration to one, $100 for a deck, and $75 or $125 for an accessory structure depending on size.7 A waterfront parcel adds $150, the county may assess a $30 recording fee, and UDC building fees vary, so ask staff for the total before submitting.20 Required UDC inspections for a new home include footings, foundation, rough work, insulation and final inspection; notify the inspector named on the permit when each stage is ready.21
Does Waushara County have zoning?
Yes. Waushara County zoning and setback rules apply in the unincorporated areas of all 18 townships, except Town of Warren land more than 1,000 feet from a lake or 300 feet from a stream.2 The Village of Wild Rose sets its own zoning, and the County Zoning Office still handles private septic systems there wherever municipal sewer is unavailable.522 The county schedule lists residential, agricultural, open, commercial and manufacturing districts; the parcel's district controls its dimensional rules.23 Minimum lots include 10,000 square feet in RS-10, 20,000 square feet in RS-20 and M-G, and one acre in A-R and A-G, while a nonconforming lot of record may remain buildable if every setback can be met.24 Listed county-zoned homes require at least 720 square feet, or 1,200 square feet in Deerfield.25 Accessory buildings need at least 7.5 feet at side and rear yards, and lake and trout-stream setbacks are 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark.26 Road setbacks vary by town, county trunk highway and state road, and town clerks may add requirements.26
How do septic permits work in Waushara County?
The Waushara County Zoning Office administers private septic requirements throughout the county wherever municipal sewer is unavailable, including inside the Village of Wild Rose.2722 A permit is required to install, repair, replace or alter a septic system; a licensed Certified Soil Tester must test the soil before the permit is issued, and a qualified licensed plumber must do the work.28 A structure with plumbing fixtures or running water cannot receive a land-use permit until a sanitary permit is obtained.8 Only about 0.2% of Waushara County soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the soil test an early purchase contingency rather than assuming a standard system will fit.29 Every septic system must be visually inspected every three years, tanks must be pumped by a licensed septage hauler, and inspection and servicing must be reported to the County Zoning Office.30
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on Waushara County land?
In the unincorporated areas covered by Waushara County's travel-trailer rules, temporary RV living means fewer than 50 nonconsecutive days in a calendar year and no more than 10 consecutive days at a time.31 Those rules do not apply inside cities and villages or in the Town of Warren.11 On a residential or agricultural parcel with a primary residence, one RV may be stored within 300 feet of the home, but it cannot be used for sleeping or overflow living.32 On General Agriculture land under 10 acres without a primary residence, the RV may be used only for that temporary living and cannot stay on the parcel unless stored in a fully enclosed storage shed.11 On General Agriculture land of at least 10 acres without a primary residence, seasonal storage of an unoccupied RV requires a conditional-use permit, a 100-foot property-line setback, a $500 application fee and a $40 annual inspection.33 During construction of a home, one camping trailer, travel trailer or mobile camper may be used for temporary living for up to one year, starting the day the land-use permit is issued, once a building permit has been issued and the unit has qualifying sanitary facilities.12 A tiny home that qualifies as a camping trailer, travel trailer or mobile camper falls under that same one-year construction allowance.12 As a permanent home, any dwelling assembled or placed in a county-zoned area must have at least 720 square feet of habitable space, not counting decks, porches, garages, basements or low lofts, so most tiny homes fall short.34 Ask the Zoning Office how a specific unit would be treated.19
What are the steps to build a home in Waushara County?
Ask the County Zoning Office to confirm county coverage, the zoning district, minimum lot size and setbacks.22426
Arrange the licensed soil test and obtain the sanitary permit if the home will use private wastewater.28
Apply for the land-use permit first: complete the application and checklist, and attach building plans, elevations, a site plan showing existing and proposed structures, and a current tax bill. A building application generally cannot be issued without it.635
Pay the land-use fee, submit the documents, and do not begin work until the permit is issued and posted.367
File with the correct UDC authority; an owner who occupies or will occupy the dwelling may apply without Dwelling Contractor Certification, but the required permits and code compliance remain.9
Notify the inspector listed on the UDC permit as each required stage becomes ready.21
What should you check before buying land in Waushara County?
Start with septic: only about 0.2% of Waushara County soils are rated without severe limits for a conventional drain field.29 About 91.5% of land has a slope of 15% or less, while roughly 47.1% is wooded.3839 Check floodplain status because Waushara County regulates floodplain development; most floodway construction is prohibited, while a new floodfringe residence must be at least two feet above Base Flood Elevation and have dry-land access.40 Check whether a proposed land division falls under the county's Chapter 42 subdivision code.41 Wisconsin requires advance DNR notice before most ordinary new private wells, and a state-highway driveway needs a WisDOT connection permit.1342
Watch-outs
Waushara County's UDC program lists Warren, Wild Rose and Wautoma as exceptions, so verify the responsible building inspector before filing.17
County zoning has a narrow Town of Warren exception, and the Town of Deerfield has a larger minimum home size than the county baseline; town clerks may add their own setback requirements.22526
A land-use permit must be issued and posted before construction starts, and a structure with plumbing needs its sanitary permit first.368
Conventional septic suitability is unusually constrained: only about 0.2% of county soils are rated without severe drain-field limitations.29
RV rules differ sharply by parcel: a stored RV at a primary residence cannot be slept in, while qualifying General Agriculture acreage without a home may require a conditional-use permit.3233
A dwelling in a county-zoned area needs at least 720 square feet of habitable space, which rules out most tiny homes; ask the County Zoning Office how a specific unit would be treated3419
Inside the Village of Wild Rose, the village sets its own zoning and issues its own building permits, so county land-use rules do not govern village parcels; septic still goes through the County Zoning Office.5422
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.
Waushara County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score
How Waushara County scores
Seclusion53100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency63100% ev.
Admin Boringness44100% ev.
Durability67100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost66100% 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 →
$287kTypical home
1.3%Property tax
$4,925Land / acre
33.3"Annual rain
3.5% of yrsSevere drought
2.5 / yr (+2.4)Mid-century 100°F days
13.4 daysMid-century dry spell
1.49" (+8.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.69×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,094Home insurance / yr
1.3% / yrInsurance growth
0.81%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
25,397People within 30 min
2,547,722People within 2 hr
32,156Radius comparison (15 mi)
39.8People / sq mi
0.7%Federal land
91.5%Land at 15% slope or less
0.2%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
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Cities and towns in Waushara County
Inside a city, town or township here, that government usually sets zoning and may issue its own building permits; the county’s rules above cover land outside them.
Not yet researched: Town of Aurora · Town of Bloomfield · Town of Coloma · Village of Coloma · Town of Dakota · Town of Deerfield · Town of Hancock · Village of Hancock · Town of Leon · Village of Lohrville · Town of Marion · Town of Mount Morris · Town of Oasis · Town of Plainfield · Village of Plainfield · Town of Poy Sippi · Village of Redgranite · Town of Richford · Town of Rose · Town of Saxeville · Town of Springwater · Town of Warren · Wautoma · Town of Wautoma
Answers from the rulebook for Waushara County
What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.
Waushara County rules
Building permitRequired
New dwellings and covered remodeling, additions, and building work in the county-administered areas.
New dwellings require a sanitary permit and UDC building permit in addition to a land use permit.
Land use permits cover placement or construction of buildings, structural alterations, and additions in the stated unincorporated areas, except work under both 150 square feet and $2,000 market value.
County land-use coverage excludes incorporated city and village limits and the stated Town of Warren lands.
area exemption threshold: < 150 square feet (The county states the exemption applies only when the work is also less than $2,000 in market value.) · market-value exemption threshold: < 2000 USD (The county states the exemption applies only when the work is also less than 150 square feet.)
“Permits are required from our office for placement or construction of all buildings, structural alterations, or additions to existing buildings in the areas of Waushara County described above, except if the building, alteration, or addition is less than 150 square feet in area, and less than $2,000 in market value. Decks, retaining walls, patios, and other improvements also require land use permits. The construction of a new dwelling or any alteration to an existing dwelling will require a sanitary permit and UDC building permit in addition to a land use permit.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — New dwellings and alterations to existing dwellings in the unincorporated areas covered by the Waushara County Zoning Office.
“The construction of a new dwelling or any alteration to an existing dwelling will require a sanitary permit and UDC building permit”
InspectionsRequired
UDC-covered remodeling, additions, new one- and two-family dwellings, swimming pools, and altered electrical services in county-administered municipalities.
Exceptions are the Town of Warren, Village of Wild Rose, and City of Wautoma, with the county page noting the Town of Warren exception is for new construction only of one- and two-family dwellings.
“The Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) is administered through Waushara County and permits and inspections are required for all remodeling, additions, and new 1 or 2 family dwellings, as well as swimming pools and altered electrical services for all municipalities except the Town of Warren*, the Village of Wild Rose, and the City of Wautoma.”
County-wide zoningPresent
Waushara County zoning ordinance framework, particularly unincorporated areas.
The county ordinance page identifies Chapter 58 as the Zoning Ordinance Codes; application coverage is separately limited by the county's unincorporated-area rules.
“Land Use permits are required from the Waushara County Zoning Office in all unincorporated areas (outside of City and Village limits) of all 18 Townships, except those lands in the Town of Warren which are greater than 1,000 feet from a lake or 300 feet from a stream.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Present (with conditions) — County zoning and land-use permitting in unincorporated areas of Waushara County.
“in all unincorporated areas (outside of City and Village limits) of all 18 Townships”
Local zoningPresent (with conditions)
County zoning and setback requirements in the unincorporated areas of all 18 Waushara County townships.
The requirements do not apply to lands in the Town of Warren more than 1,000 feet from a lake and 300 feet from a stream or the edge of the floodplain.
Property owners within incorporated city or village limits not served by municipal sewer are directed to contact both the County Zoning Office and their local clerk.
Town clerks may have additional setback and other requirements.
“Setback/Zoning Requirements are administered by the County Zoning Office, and apply in the unincorporated areas of all 18 Townships”
Zoning districtsPublished
Waushara County zoning districts and dimensional table for unincorporated areas.
The official setback schedule lists RS-10, RS-20, A-R, A-G, O-N, O-F, C-G, C-S, C-C, and M-G.
The county states these requirements apply in unincorporated areas of all 18 townships, subject to the Town of Warren exception.
Dwellings subject to Waushara County zoning in unincorporated areas.
Minimum is 720 square feet for a home.
Town of Deerfield requires 1,200 square feet.
Applicable sanitary permit must be obtained before the land-use permit can be approved.
minimum dwelling area: >= 720 sq ft (Town of Deerfield requires 1,200 sq ft) · minimum dwelling area in Town of Deerfield: >= 1200 sq ft
“720 sq ft minimum required for home, except 1200 sq ft required in Town of Deerfield”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Specified — Dwellings subject to the county zoning requirements.
“Land use permits for dwellings (720 sq ft minimum required for home, except 1200 sq ft required in Town of Deerfield) can only be approved after the applicable sanitary permit has been obtained from this office.”
Minimum lot sizeSpecified
Lots in the listed Waushara County zoning districts.
Existing lots of record that do not meet the listed criteria may be considered buildable if all required setbacks are maintained.
The county document states the requirements apply in unincorporated areas of all 18 townships, subject to the Town of Warren exception.
RS-10 minimum lot size: 10000 square feet · RS-20 minimum lot size: 20000 square feet · A-R minimum lot size: 1 acre · A-G minimum lot size: 1 acre · M-G minimum lot size: 20000 square feet
Structures subject to Waushara County zoning in unincorporated areas.
Setback distances apply even when a permit is not required.
Accessory buildings have a 7.5-foot side and rear yard minimum setback.
Minimum water setback is 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark of a lake and 75 feet from the ordinary high-water mark of trout streams.
Boathouses and livestock housing are exceptions to the stated trout-stream water setback.
Additional shoreland restrictions may apply.
Town clerks may impose additional requirements.
accessory building side and rear yard setback: >= 7.5 ft · lake water setback: >= 75 ft (ordinary high water mark) · trout stream water setback: >= 75 ft (except for boathouses and livestock housing)
“Side and rear yard minimum setback is 7 ½’ in all zoning districts.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Specified — Structures subject to Waushara County zoning setbacks.
“Side and rear yard minimum setback is 7 ½’ in all zoning districts. All accessory buildings require a detailed floor plan, cannot exceed one story, and may be required to execute a verified affidavit prohibiting the building’s use for living purposes even on a temporary basis.”
Living in an RVLimited
Parcels of at least 10 acres zoned General Agriculture without a primary residence in unincorporated Waushara County.
A seasonal residence may be established to store an unoccupied recreational vehicle or travel trailer only with approval of a Conditional Use Permit by the Planning & Zoning Committee.
The application requires a site plan showing the unit's distance from property lines, with a 100-foot minimum property-line setback.
The conditional-use application fee is $500.
An approved permit carries an annual zoning-office inspection costing $40.
The unit must be licensed and roadworthy, conform to setbacks, have no additions or attachments, not be placed on a foundation, and have adequate sanitary facilities.
If there is no running water, a chemical, gas, incinerator, or vault-privy sanitary arrangement and a non-plumbing sanitary permit may be required.
If running water is provided, the unit must use a conventional septic tank/drain field or another private sewage-disposal method approved by DSPS and the Waushara County Utility Code, with a sanitary permit obtained through a licensed plumber.
This county information does not apply to incorporated cities and villages or the Town of Warren.
parcel acreage: >= 10 acres (No primary residence on the parcel) · property-line setback: >= 100 feet · conditional-use application fee: 500 USD · annual inspection fee: 40 USD
“Parcels of land consisting of 10 acres or more and zoned General Agriculture that does not have a primary residence may establish a season residence to store an unoccupied recreational vehicle/travel trailer with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit by the Planning & Zoning Committee.”
5 more reviewed findings on this topic
Temporary only (with conditions) — Camping trailers, travel trailers, and mobile campers or units used for temporary living in unincorporated Waushara County.
“Temporary living is considered to be less than 50 nonconsecutive calendar days within a calendar year & no more than 10 consecutive days at a time.”
Limited — Seasonal residence or storage of an unoccupied camping trailer, travel trailer, or mobile camper on qualifying unincorporated Waushara County parcels.
“Parcels of land consisting of 10 acres or more and zoned General Agriculture that does not have a primary residence may establish a season residence to store an unoccupied recreational vehicle/travel trailer with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit by the Planning & Zoning Committee.”
Temporary only — Temporary living in a recreational vehicle or travel trailer on a Waushara County parcel of less than 10 acres zoned General Agriculture without a primary residence, excluding incorporated cities and villages and the Town of Warren.
“Temporary living is considered to be less than 50 nonconsecutive calendar days within a calendar year & no more than 10 consecutive days at a time.”
Limited — A single recreational vehicle, travel trailer, or mobile camper on a Waushara County residential or agricultural parcel with a primary residence, excluding incorporated cities and villages and the Town of Warren.
“Parcels of land with a primary residence may store a single recreational vehicle/travel trailer within 300’ of that primary residence. The unit cannot be used for overflow living or occasional sleeping; strictly storage only. This includes both residential and agricultural zones.”
Temporary only (with conditions) — Parcels under 10 acres zoned General Agriculture without a primary residence in unincorporated Waushara County.
“Parcels of land consisting of less than 10 acres and zoned General Agriculture that does not have a primary residence may only be used for temporary living. No unoccupied recreational vehicle/travel trailer may be left on the parcel of land unless stored in a fully enclosed storage shed.”
Tiny homesLimited
A tiny home used as a dwelling in Waushara County areas governed by the county zoning code.
Any dwelling assembled or placed must have at least 720 square feet of habitable space.
Decks, patios, open porches, attached garages, below-grade basements, and attic or loft portions less than seven feet high do not count toward habitable space.
The dwelling must also be an allowed use in the applicable county zoning district and comply with other applicable county and state requirements.
If the dwelling is a manufactured home, it must be on a permanent foundation with adequate anchoring, have an entirely enclosed fireproof foundation, and comply with the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, including foundation, electrical, and plumbing requirements.
minimum habitable space: >= 720 square feet (Specified decks, patios, open porches, attached garages, below-grade basements, and attic or loft portions under seven feet are excluded from habitable-space calculations.)
“Any dwelling assembled or placed shall have not less than 720 square feet of habitable space.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Limited — A tiny home that qualifies as a camping trailer, travel trailer, mobile camper, or other unit under Waushara County Code § 58-9, used temporarily while constructing a single-family or two-family home in county-zoned areas.
“A single camping trailer, travel trailer, or mobile camper or unit [...] may be used for temporary living purposes during the construction of a single-family”
Who permits septicCounty
Private septic-system requirements in areas of Waushara County not served by municipal sewer.
Applies in areas not served by municipal sewer.
Work must be done by a qualified, licensed plumber.
Soil tests must be taken by a licensed Certified Soil Tester before permits are issued.
“administered by the County Zoning Office”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
County — Private onsite wastewater systems in areas not served by municipal sewer.
“Septic System requirements are administered by the County Zoning Office and apply in all areas of the county not served by municipal sewer.”
Septic permitRequired
New, repaired, replaced, or altered septic systems in areas not served by municipal sewer.
All work must be done by a qualified, licensed plumber.
A licensed Certified Soil Tester must perform soil tests before permits are issued.
Structures with plumbing fixtures or running water cannot receive a land-use permit until a sanitary permit is obtained.
“Permits are required for repairing, replacing, and altering existing septic systems”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — New, repaired, replaced, or altered septic systems in areas not served by municipal sewer.
“Permits are required for repairing, replacing, and altering existing septic systems, as well as installing new ones. All work must be done by a qualified, licensed plumber. Soil tests must be taken by a licensed Certified Soil Tester prior to issuing such permits.”
Septic inspectionRequired
All septic systems in areas subject to Waushara County septic requirements.
Visual inspection is required every three years for leaking tanks or ponding of the absorption area.
Pumping must be completed by a licensed septage hauler.
Inspection and servicing must be reported to the County Zoning Office.
inspection interval: 3 years (Visual inspection)
“All septic systems must be visually inspected every three years for signs of leaking tank and/or ponding of absorption area (drainage field). Pumping of tanks must be completed by a licensed septage hauler. Inspection and servicing must be reported to the County Zoning Office.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Required — Septic systems in Waushara County areas not served by municipal sewer.
“All septic systems must be visually inspected every three years for signs of leaking tank and/or ponding of absorption area (drainage field). Pumping of tanks must be completed by a licensed septage hauler. Inspection and servicing must be reported to the County Zoning Office.”
Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)
Subdivision and land division regulation under Waushara County Chapter 42.
The official county ordinance page identifies Chapter 42 as the Subdivision Ordinance Codes.
Detailed Chapter 42 standards, municipal overrides, and all exceptions were not fully opened and remain for follow-up.
“Subdivision Ordinance Codes (Chapter 42)”
Building in a floodplainLimited
Development in floodplain areas subject to Waushara County Chapter 18 and applicable local floodplain zoning requirements.
In a floodfringe, construction may be permitted only if standards are met; new residences must be at least two feet above the Base Flood Elevation, have dry land access, and not exacerbate flooding elsewhere.
Most construction is prohibited in a floodway.
Zone AE construction must meet local floodplain zoning requirements and include evidence that principal structures are above the BFE shown on adopted FIRM maps.
Zone A construction must meet local floodplain zoning requirements and may require engineering cross-sections.
Local floodplain zoning ordinances do not apply to shaded or unshaded Zone X.
For incorporated cities and villages, check with the local government.
new residence elevation in floodfringe: >= 2 feet above Base Flood Elevation
“The Floods Code (Chapter 18 of the Waushara County Code) is designed to regulate floodplain development”
Permit feesVariable (with conditions)
County land-use permits and related county building permits.
The county instructs applicants to obtain the total due from staff if unsure.
An additional $30 recording fee may be assessed.
Waterfront riparian parcels have an additional $150 fee.
The building fee schedule is stated to cover January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2026.
possible recording fee: 30 USD (May be assessed) · riparian parcel additional fee: 150 USD (Waterfront properties)
“Riparian Parcels have an additional fee of $150.00. Click here for Fee Schedule. There may be an additional $30 recording fee assessed.”
One more reviewed finding on this topic
Published (with conditions) — Published Waushara County land-use permit fees.
“Land Use Permit- Principal Structure $225”
Permit processPublished (with conditions)
County land-use permit applications and county-administered building permits.
Land-use applicants must complete the application and checklist, attach plans and elevation views, prepare a site plan, provide a current tax bill, pay the fee, and email or mail the documents and receipt.
Building applications require a zoning permit except electrical-service installations and upgrades, and generally cannot be issued without one.
“Complete the Land Use Permit Application [...] Complete the Land Use Checklist [...] Attach building plans and elevation views [...] Create a site plan of your property including: all existing structures and proposed structures.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Published (with conditions) — Waushara County land-use and building-permit application process.
“Having applied for a land use permit does not give a landowner or contractor the right to begin construction. No construction can commence until the required land use permit is obtained, and the permit is posted at the construction site.”
Published (with conditions) — County land-use permit applications for development in unincorporated Waushara County.
“Complete the Land Use Permit Application [...] Attach building plans and elevation views [...] Pay for your permit online.”
Wisconsin rules that apply here
Owner-builder exemptionConditional
An owner-occupant applying for a Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permit without a Dwelling Contractor Certification.
The applicant must be or become the owner-occupant of the dwelling.
The owner leaves the Dwelling Contractor and Qualifier information blank and checks the owner-occupant attestation box.
The attestation includes a cautionary statement regarding contractor responsibility.
The source establishes an owner-occupant application allowance, but does not establish that all licensing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, or other construction requirements are waived.
“owner-occupant of this dwelling for which I am applying for an erosion control or construction permit without a Dwelling Contractor Certification”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Available (with conditions) — Owner-occupants applying for Wisconsin UDC construction or erosion-control permits.
“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.”
Conditional — An owner obtaining construction and erosion-control permits for a dwelling covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.
“The construction and erosion control permits must be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor, who also employs a state-certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier, or by the owner who occupies the home currently or will after completion.”
Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)
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) — One- and two-family dwellings governed by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code.
“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.”
Adopted (with conditions) — Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code requirements for new one- and two-family dwelling units, including manufactured home installations, as applicable in Waushara County.
“A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units.”
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
Limited — Occupancy of UDC dwellings after construction.
“Take occupancy after receiving a final inspection”
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.”
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.”
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.”
Driveway accessRequired
A new or altered driveway or other connection to a state trunk highway and work in state highway right-of-way.
WisDOT issues permits on state highways under its jurisdiction; county highways and municipal roads may be subject to county or municipal permitting instead.
The number of driveways serving a single state-trunk-highway frontage must be the minimum deemed necessary for reasonable service without undue impairment of safety, convenience, and utility.
A controlled-access designation or other access restriction may require a different application or prevent the connection.
A residential connection may be limited to 24 feet wide and a commercial connection to 35 feet wide at the right-of-way line.
residential connection maximum width: 24 feet at right-of-way line · commercial connection maximum width: 35 feet at right-of-way line
“So, a permit is required from WisDOT before you construct a new connection to your property. [...] Why can my connection only be 24 feet wide (residential) or 35 feet wide (commercial)? [...] These distances are measured at the right-of-way line.”
2 more reviewed findings on this topic
Required — Driveways and other connections between property abutting Wisconsin state highway right-of-way and the state highway.
“For state highways, WisDOT requires a connection permit.”
Limited — Multiple driveway connections serving one property frontage along a Wisconsin state trunk highway.
“The number of driveways permitted serving a single property frontage along a state trunk highway shall be the minimum deemed necessary by the department for reasonable service to the property without undue impairment of safety, convenience, and utility of the highway.”
Short-term rentalsLimited
Lodging rented to tourists or transients for short periods in Wisconsin, including homes, condos, cabins, cottages, and similar lodging facilities.
A DATCP lodging permit is required for all lodging facilities in Wisconsin.
A tourist or transient must be away from the person's permanent address.
The reviewed source does not establish local zoning or municipal operating restrictions.
“If lodging is rented to a tourist or transient, it will require a permit.”
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 Waushara 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.
Camping on your land
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.
Water rights & wells in Waushara County
Whether a new home can legally get its own water here — the sub-state groundwater regime, from Wisconsin’s water agency.
Actively managed
This basin is under active state management — new water use is scrutinized, though a domestic well is usually still allowed.
Household wellExempt — no permit or water right
Reasonable-use rule with a DNR high-capacity-well overlay (Wis. Stat. 281.34). Residential wells are statutorily excluded from the 'high capacity well' definition, so a household well needs no DNR withdrawal approval (NR 812 construction code still applies).
Limit: household wells exempt; only 'high capacity' wells (>100,000 gpd) need DNR approval
Central Sands region (high-capacity-well constraint)partial of county
Sand-plain region with 3,000+ high-capacity irrigation wells whose pumping draws down lakes, trout streams and wetlands (Central Sands Lakes Study). New high-capacity (>100,000 gpd) wells get case-by-case DNR review; domestic/household wells remain exempt.
Regulated-riparian state (large uses permitted). Groundwater rules change and basin boundaries follow the aquifer, not the county line — confirm current well and appropriation rules with the Wisconsin state water agency before you buy or drill.Groundwater governance as of Jul 2026, cited to each administering agency.
Living off-grid in Waushara County, Wisconsin
Is Waushara County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?
Waushara County scores 70/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and mixed durability signals.
Do you need a building permit in Waushara County, Wisconsin?
Waushara County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Waushara County Land Conservation & Zoning Office. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.
Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Waushara County?
Living in an RV on your own land in Waushara County is limited to specific cases: Parcels of at least 10 acres zoned General Agriculture without a primary residence in unincorporated Waushara County. A seasonal residence may be established to store an unoccupied recreational vehicle or travel trailer only with approval of a Conditional Use Permit by the Planning & Zoning Committee. The application requires a site plan showing the unit's distance from property lines, with a 100-foot minimum property-line setback. A tiny home is limited to specific cases. Confirm with the county before relying on it.
How much does land cost in Waushara County, Wisconsin?
Land in Waushara County runs about $4,925 per acre, based on the latest county data.
What is the water situation in Waushara County?
Waushara County gets about 33.3" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 3.5% of years. On water rights, Waushara County lies in the Central Sands region (high-capacity-well constraint) — Sand-plain region with 3,000+ high-capacity irrigation wells whose pumping draws down lakes, trout streams and wetlands (Central Sands Lakes Study). New high-capacity (>100,000 gpd) wells get case-by-case DNR review; domestic/household wells remain exempt..
How remote is Waushara County?
A representative private-land location has about 25,397 people within a 30-minute drive and 2,547,722 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.
