Building Permits by City in Wisconsin: Fees, Rules and Links

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Permit needed.

Appleton: five jobsOutagamie County · open a row for what the city’s page says

Permits by city

Five jobs, 30 cities

Judged for a single-family home and read from each city’s own pages. Open a city for the words its page uses and the date we read it. Where we could not confirm a rule it says “check with the city”.

Building permit rules for Wisconsin cities, five jobs, grouped by region (our grouping)
City	Reroof	Driveway or patio	Deck	Basement waterproofing	Fence	Five jobs
Up North3 citiesyour region
Marathon County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Inspections We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Douglas County	PERMIT	DEPENDS	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Depends; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT A permit is needed whenever you plan to: 1. Build a house or other building (including sheds) 2. Make improvements or alterations to your home or business 3. Move or demolish a building 4. Roof or reroof your home, business, or other building Fee as published: $30 roof permit ($50 combination of two or more of roof, siding, windows/doors) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkDEPENDS Right-of-Way Access (driveway access, each driveway) $65.00 The fee schedule lists a "Driveway Access" permit ($65) and a Land Disturbing & ROW permit for work within the city right-of-way. The pages we could read do not say when a permit is needed for the driveway slab, patios or sidewalks. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT B. Accessory Structures Requiring Permits: 1. Attached garage 2. Detached garage 3. Deck (including deck steps) Fee as published: $0.25 per sq. ft. of footprint, $30 minimum (accessory structures requiring permits, including deck and deck steps) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FencePERMIT A permit is needed whenever you plan to: ... 7. All accessory buildings and residential fences City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Building Inspection The Superior page
Portage County	PERMIT	PERMIT	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Permit needed; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT Replacement of roof, soffit, and fascia City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkPERMIT Driveway expansion, installation, or reconstruction Patching or seal coating the existing driveway footprint needs no permit. Patios and landscaping retaining walls under 2 feet in height need none; patios over 2 feet in height do. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT New or replacement of deck Board replacement on decks does not need a permit. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FencePERMIT Fencing, or retaining walls 2 feet or higher Temporary garden fencing such as mesh does not need a permit. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Department of Community Development: Building Inspection The Stevens Point page
Northeast & Lakeshore3 citiesyour region
Brown County	NO PERMIT	PERMIT	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	Roof replacement: No permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Permit needed; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Depends
Roof replacementNO PERMIT Roofing Residential (No structural changes, i.e. replacing plywood sheathing) No Residential roofing with structural changes needs a permit (city table). The city FAQ adds that roofing needs a permit on a building of 3 or more units or within a historic residential area. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkPERMIT Driveway Install, Alterations/Parking Slab Yes Inspections Fee as published: $75 residential ($100 commercial) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT Deck Yes Inspections Replacing decking boards (non-structural) needs no permit. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceDEPENDS Fence (Only if over 50 feet long) Yes Inspections The city permit table says a fence needs a permit only if it is over 50 feet long, and a fence under 50 feet needs none (zoning setbacks and restrictions still apply). The city FAQ says a permit is needed for a fence, without that exception. Confirm with Inspections, 920-448-3300. Fee as published: $75 residential ($100 commercial) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Community & Economic Development: Building Permits & Inspections The Green Bay page
Sheboygan County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Inspection Services We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Manitowoc County	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT Roofing. New or replacement roofing. Replace 25% or less no permit required. Replacing 25% or less of the roofing needs no permit. A detached garage re-roof, size for size, needs no permit. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckPERMIT Deck, porch, ramp, step. New or replacement of existing. Replacing only decking material does not require a permit. Replacing only the decking material needs no permit. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FencePERMIT Fence. New or replacement of existing. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Building Inspection The Manitowoc page
Fox Valley4 citiesyour region
Outagamie County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	DEPENDS	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Depends; Deck: Depends; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkDEPENDS Driveway Permits 2 documents Driveway Permit Appleton lists a Driveway Permit application and vision-corner rules but its pages do not say when a permit is required. Ask Building Inspections, 920-832-6411. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckDEPENDS It depends. Decks, remodeling, pools, siding, sheds over 50 square feet among others most likely will require a permit. City FAQ ("What type of work requires a permit?"): decks most likely require a permit; if in doubt, contact Building Inspections at 832-6411 before starting. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FencePERMIT Fence permits are issued by the Department of Public Works Fee as published: $75 City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Community Development: Inspections Division The Appleton page
Winnebago County	DEPENDS	DEPENDS	DEPENDS	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	Roof replacement: Depends; Driveway and flatwork: Depends; Deck: Depends; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Depends
Roof replacementDEPENDS A permit may be required for: ... Siding and roofing work. The city says a permit may be required for siding and roofing work. No more than one layer of existing shingles may remain under new shingles; residential metal roofs need Planning Division approval. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkDEPENDS A permit may be required for: ... Fences, patios, and driveways. The city says a permit may be required for fences, patios and driveways. A concrete sidewalk up to 4 feet wide needs none. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckDEPENDS A permit may be required for: ... Decks, stairs, stoops, porches, and ramps. The city says a permit may be required for decks, stairs, stoops, porches and ramps. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceDEPENDS A permit may be required for: ... Fences, patios, and driveways. The city says a permit may be required for fences, patios and driveways. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Inspection Services Division The Oshkosh page
Fond du Lac County	PERMIT	DEPENDS	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Depends; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT A permit is required for but not limited to: new buildings, additions, interior and exterior alterations, siding, roofing Permits for minor alterations or maintenance repairs may be waived by the City Building Inspector; call (920) 322-3570 to verify. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkDEPENDS A permit is required for but not limited to: ... sheds, patios, fences Patios are on the permit-required list; driveways and sidewalks are not named. Call the Building Inspection office at (920) 322-3570 to verify. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT A permit is required for but not limited to: ... garages, decks, windows City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FencePERMIT A permit is required for but not limited to: ... patios, fences City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Inspection Services The Fond du Lac page
Winnebago County	DEPENDS	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Depends; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementDEPENDS Cosmetic work or repair work such as re-roofing, re-siding, kitchen cabinet replacement etc. may not require a permit unless the work involves structural items or plumbing or electrical system. Re-roofing may not need a permit unless the work involves structural items or the plumbing or electrical system. Call 920-886-6130 to verify. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckPERMIT Common improvements needing permits are: ... Decks (over 24 Decks over 24 inches above grade or over 24 sq. ft. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 17, 2026 FencePERMIT Common improvements needing permits are: ... Fences (replacement or new) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Division of Community Development: Inspections The Neenah page
Southeast13 citiesyour region
Milwaukee County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Department of Neighborhood Services We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Kenosha County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Division of Building Inspection We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Racine County	DEPENDS	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	Roof replacement: Depends; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Depends; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Depends
Roof replacementDEPENDS Residential Roof Permit Application Racine publishes this application on its Building Inspection page but the page does not say when a permit is required or what is exempt. Confirm with Building Inspection, 262-636-9171. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckDEPENDS Pergola, Pavilion, Deck Application Racine publishes this application on its Building Inspection page but the page does not say when a permit is required or what is exempt. Confirm with Building Inspection, 262-636-9171. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceDEPENDS Fence Permit Application Racine publishes this application on its Building Inspection page but the page does not say when a permit is required or what is exempt. Confirm with Building Inspection, 262-636-9171. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 City Development: Building Inspection The Racine page
Waukesha County	NO PERMIT	DEPENDS	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	NO PERMIT	Roof replacement: No permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Depends; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: No permit needed
Roof replacementNO PERMIT Re-siding and re-roofing (with no structural changes): No permit required Residential (1& 2 Family) Applies when there are no structural changes. Structural changes need a permit. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkDEPENDS If any work is required between the sidewalk and the street, an Excavation/Work within the City Right-of-Way Permit is required from the Department of Public Works. Any work between the sidewalk and the street needs an Excavation/Work within the City Right-of-Way Permit from Public Works. The page lists driveway ordinances (6.13 locations, 16.075 completion before occupancy, 22.53 and 22.58 setbacks) and does not say a separate building permit is needed for the slab itself. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT A building permit is required, along with detailed plans and a site survey. A contractor needs a city contractor account plus a Dwelling Contractor (DC) and Dwelling Contractor Qualifier (DCQ) certification. Only homeowners who live at the job address may apply for themselves. Fee as published: $145 (listed as 'Residential - Deck and Pool' on the 2026 fee schedule) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceNO PERMIT Fences do not require permits, but all fences must adhere to a number of regulations. No permit, but placement, height and material rules apply; commercial and multifamily (3+) properties must contact Planning. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Community Development: Inspection Division The Waukesha page
Milwaukee County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Building Inspection We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Milwaukee County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Building Inspection We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Waukesha County	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementPERMIT Reroofing/Residing Yes No No City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckPERMIT Decks (Attached or Detached) Yes No No City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 17, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Inspection Services & Zoning
Waukesha County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Depends; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Depends
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkDEPENDS Engineering Department Permit (Culverts, Curb and Ditch, Driveway Approach, Grading and Erosion Control) The Engineering Department issues permits for culverts, curb and ditch, driveway approach, grading and erosion control. The page does not say when a permit is needed for the driveway slab, patios or sidewalks. Contact City staff. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT Decks (Attached or Detached) Yes City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceDEPENDS Planning/Zoning Permits (Fence, Home Occupation, Retaining Wall) New Berlin lists a Planning/Zoning permit for fences among its applications, but the page does not say when one is required. Contact City staff. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Community Development: Building Permits & Inspections The New Berlin page
Milwaukee County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	PERMIT	PERMIT	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Permit needed; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Permit needed; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkPERMIT A permit is required for the new construction, replacement, or expansion of a driveway, driveway approach, or parking pad. Needs a plat of survey. A permit is also required for any curb cut. Patios and sidewalks are not addressed. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT Homeowners wishing to pull their own permits must physically reside at the address where the work will be done. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingPERMIT A permit is required for all foundation repairs, including but not limited to wall bracing and drain tile installation. Needs WAFRP Appendix C or an engineering report, except for drain tile. Coatings or membranes alone are not named. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 FencePERMIT Fences are a permitted accessory use in any residential district and may be erected upon issuance of a Fence Permit. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Community Development Department: Inspection The Oak Creek page
Milwaukee County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Community Development: Inspection Services We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Milwaukee County	DEPENDS	DEPENDS	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Depends; Driveway and flatwork: Depends; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementDEPENDS Reroofing. residing including trim a. Residential Franklin's building permit fee schedule lists residential reroofing and residing, but the pages we could read do not say when a permit is required or what is exempt. Contact Inspection Services, 414-425-0084. Fee as published: $60 residential reroofing/residing including trim City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkDEPENDS The undersigned hereby applies for a permit to construct a concrete drive approach to the specifications on file in the office of the City Engineer A Concrete Drive Approach permit is required for the approach and curb opening: $90 permit plus $10 technology fee. Rules for the driveway slab itself, patios and sidewalks were not found. Fee as published: $100 total for a drive approach City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT 6. APPLICATION FOR PERMIT ... City of Franklin Building Permit The city handout also sets location, footing and post-connection rules for decks. Franklin does not say in words which deck work is exempt. Fee as published: $95 under 100 sq. ft.; $180 for 100 sq. ft. or more City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FencePERMIT Building Permit Required. No fence shall be Fee as published: $14.00 per $1,000 of value of work, $95.00 minimum (plus a $10.00 technology fee) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Inspection Services The Franklin page
Washington County	DEPENDS	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Depends; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Depends; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementDEPENDS Remodeling/Miscellaneous Permits (Ex. Deck, Roofing, Siding, Electrical Service, Furnace, Water Heater) West Bend lists roofing as an example of its Remodeling/Miscellaneous Permits application, but the page does not say when a permit is required. Confirm with Building Inspection. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckDEPENDS Remodeling/Miscellaneous Permits (Ex. Deck, Roofing, Siding, Electrical Service, Furnace, Water Heater) West Bend lists decks as an example of its Remodeling/Miscellaneous Permits application and publishes Deck Requirements, but the page does not say when a permit is required. Confirm with Building Inspection. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Building Inspection
Waukesha County	PERMIT	PERMIT	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Permit needed; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT Re-Roofing and Re-Siding - Minor repairs may not require permits, contact inspector to discuss your specific project. Minor repairs may not require permits; contact the inspector to discuss your project. Fee as published: $10 per $1,000 of value, $125 minimum (re-roofing, re-siding, foundation repair) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkPERMIT Driveways, Patios, Walkways, Sidewalks - A Zoning Permit is required for these items. The permit is a Zoning Permit, not a building permit, and applies to concrete, asphalt, pavers, gravel and other surfaces. Right-of-way work is separate (Engineering). Fee as published: Zoning permit, planning review $25 City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT Decks, Stairs, Porches, and Gazebos - Both Attached and Detached Fee as published: Planning review $25, building review $60, building permit fee $150 (engineering review starts at $23.75) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 17, 2026 FencePERMIT Fences and Retaining/Seat Walls (decorative or functional) - A Zoning Permit is required for these items. The permit is a Zoning Permit, not a building permit. Fee as published: Zoning permit, planning review $25 City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Community Development: Building Inspection and Planning The Muskego page
South Central5 citiesyour region
Dane County	PERMIT	PERMIT	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	NO PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Permit needed; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: No permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT Roofing - Reroof your house or garage Yes Building Inspection City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkPERMIT Driveway Yes Zoning: 608-266-4551 ext 3 A residential drive opening or apron in the right of way also needs a Street Terrace Permit or a Permit to Excavate in the Right of Way (Engineering). A patio does not need a permit. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckPERMIT You need a permit to build a deck. Deck boards can be replaced without a permit if the cost is under $500. Replacing stairs, joists, beams, columns or guardrails should have a permit or be checked with Building Inspection. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceNO PERMIT You do not need a building permit to put up a fence. No building permit, but height and placement rules apply (Zoning, 608-266-4551 ext. 3) and deed covenants may restrict fences. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Development Services Center: Building Inspection and Zoning The Madison page
Rock County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Building Services We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Dane County	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	PERMIT	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Permit needed; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT For exterior work, a permit is needed for: Roof replacement on a house or a garage Fee as published: $75 (one- and two-family roof replacement) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckPERMIT A Deck addition, replacement or alteration (Plan required) Replacing deck boards does not need a building permit. Fee as published: $150 plus zoning, plan review, aerial imaging and erosion control fees City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingPERMIT For interior work, a permit is required for: ... Drain tile and/or basement drainage system installation City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 FencePERMIT A Fence addition, replacement or alteration (Plan required) Fee as published: $75 City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Building Inspection Department The Sun Prairie page
Rock County	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Check with the city; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Check with the city; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 Building Inspection We could not read this city’s site yet, so every job says “check with the city”.
Dane County	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	DEPENDS	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Depends; Basement waterproofing: Permit needed; Fence: Check with the city
Roof replacementPERMIT Permits and Inspections are required for the following; ... Re-roofing: Including tear off or overlay Repairs for maintenance and upkeep that do not exceed $2,000 and are not listed on the permit list are exempt. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckDEPENDS Attached and detached uncovered wood decks with floor surfaces less the 24 inches above the adjacent grade level A deck needs a permit when the floor is 24 inches or more above the adjacent grade. Uncovered wood decks lower than 24 inches are exempt from a building permit. Fee as published: $275 ($200 Building Inspection and $75 Zoning) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingPERMIT Permits and Inspections are required for the following; ... Basement waterproofing City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 FenceCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 17, 2026 Building Inspection The Fitchburg page
Driftless & West2 citiesyour region
Eau Claire County	PERMIT	DEPENDS	DEPENDS	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Depends; Deck: Depends; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT As a general rule, a building permit is needed any time a building is: Being built Reconstructed Improved Enlarged Altered Converted Repaired Moved Demolished Re-roofing Siding Re-roofing under 200 sq. ft. needs no permit (fee schedule). Choose "Building Exterior" in the online system when replacing shingles or metal roofing. Fee as published: $35 residential re-roof (building permit fee schedule) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkDEPENDS Parking Surface Permit ................ $ 40.00 The fee schedule lists a Parking Surface Permit, but the city driveway page (ordinance 16.36.080, improved surfaces) does not say a permit is needed for a residential driveway. Confirm with Community Development, 715-839-4914. Fee as published: $40 "Parking Surface Permit" (building permit fee schedule) City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 DeckDEPENDS Apply online How to Apply for a Permit Online (PDF) The Residential Decks page links the state deck code and an online permit application but does not say which decks are exempt. The city rule is that a building permit is needed any time a building is built, enlarged or altered. Ask Inspections, 715-839-4947. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FencePERMIT Fences require development permits and must comply with the standards established for fences. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Community Development: Inspections Division The Eau Claire page
La Crosse County	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	CHECK WITH THE CITY	PERMIT	Roof replacement: Permit needed; Driveway and flatwork: Check with the city; Deck: Permit needed; Basement waterproofing: Check with the city; Fence: Permit needed
Roof replacementPERMIT RE-ROOFING Do I need a building permit? Yes. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Driveway and flatworkCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 DeckPERMIT WOOD DECKS Do I need a building permit? Yes. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Basement waterproofingCHECK WITH THE CITY Not confirmed from the city’s pages. Check with the city · checked Oct 16, 2026 FencePERMIT FENCE Do I need a building permit? Yes. Fences within three feet of a lot line with no record of a fence need a survey by a registered land surveyor or engineer (unless a recordable affidavit is filed). Residential fences may not exceed six feet. City page · checked Oct 17, 2026 Building & Inspections The La Crosse page

The 30 largest cities by population (U.S. Census Bureau, 2025 estimates). Every known cell carries a quote from the city’s page; rows verified Oct 17, 2026. Regions are our own grouping, not an official one.

On this page

Do you need a building permit in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin cities that require permits for roofs, decks, driveways and fences
Reading the permit table by city and job
Who qualifies to pull a permit
Next steps for unlisted cities or Check with the city entries

Do you need a building permit in Wisconsin?

For a one- or two-family dwelling, the permit is a Wisconsin uniform building permit. You get it from the municipality that administers and enforces the code, or from an authorized UDC inspection agency, before on-site construction begins.^[6] The municipality sets its own fees for plan examination, inspection and permit issuance by ordinance.^[6]

Home exterior with a deck under construction — A single-family home with a deck under construction

The state's model municipal ordinance names a Building Inspector to administer and enforce it. It calls for a permit before specified alterations, additions or new construction.^[8] Fees are set by resolution and include $25.00 forwarded to DSPS for a UDC permit seal on a new dwelling.^[8]

Each city can write its own rules, so check with the local permit office before assuming a job works the same in the next town over.

Ask the city whether a job that needs no building permit still has a zoning, plumbing, electrical or site-work permit of its own. A "No" in the table answers the building permit question only.

Wisconsin cities that require permits for roofs, decks, driveways and fences

The 30 cities in the table are the largest in the state by U.S. Census Bureau Vintage 2025 estimates.^[1] Each row comes from the city's own pages and was checked in October 2026.

Job	Yes	No	Depends	Check with the city
Roof replacement	11	2	5	12
Deck	15	0	6	9
Fence	12	2	4	12
Driveway and flatwork	5	0	8	17
Basement waterproofing	3	0	0	27

Here is how the 30 answered for each job:

Roof replacement: 11 yes, 2 no, 5 depends, 12 check with the city.
Deck: 15 yes, 0 no, 6 depends, 9 check with the city.
Fence: 12 yes, 2 no, 4 depends, 12 check with the city.
Driveway and flatwork: 5 yes, 0 no, 8 depends, 17 check with the city.
Basement waterproofing: 3 yes, 0 no, 0 depends, 27 check with the city.

Roofs and decks

Madison, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Fond du Lac and Superior say yes to a roof replacement. Green Bay and Waukesha say no. Racine, Oshkosh, Franklin, West Bend and Neenah depend on the scope of the work.

Decks are the most consistent job. No city in the table says no, and Madison, Green Bay, Waukesha, Oak Creek and Muskego all say yes.

For footings, railings and the permit trigger, see the Wisconsin deck code guide.

Fences, driveways and basements

Madison and Waukesha say no to a fence permit, while Appleton, Eau Claire and Superior say yes. Green Bay, Racine, Oshkosh and New Berlin depend on the details.

Driveways split differently. Madison, Green Bay, Oak Creek, Stevens Point and Muskego say yes, and eight cities depend, among them Appleton, Waukesha and Eau Claire.

Only Sun Prairie, Oak Creek and Fitchburg are confirmed for basement waterproofing, all yes. For that job, see wet basements in Wisconsin.

Reading the permit table by city and job

Each row is one city, with a column per job. Cells read Yes, No, Depends or Check with the city, so nothing depends on color.

"Depends" means the city's page ties the answer to something about your project, such as its size or scope. Open the city page from the row and read the conditions before you decide.

"Check with the city" means the job still needs confirming locally. The link in the cell goes to the city's page, and a call to the building inspector settles it.

Nine cities have no confirmed answer for any of the five jobs: Milwaukee, Kenosha, Janesville, West Allis, Sheboygan, Wauwatosa, Wausau, Greenfield and Beloit.

The table is a starting point. The city or its building inspector has the final word on your address and your scope.

Who qualifies to pull a permit

For a one- or two-family dwelling, the person who obtains the building permit holds a Dwelling Contractor certification (or a Dwelling Contractor Restricted certification) through a certificate of financial responsibility.^[3] That certificate is valid for one year. It requires a bond of at least $25,000 or general liability insurance of at least $250,000 per occurrence.^[2]

It is a permit-pulling credential, not a trade license.^[2]

The contractor also needs a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier, either held personally or through an employee who holds one.^[5] Renewing the Qualifier takes 12 hours of department-approved continuing education.^[4]

The full breakdown is in our Dwelling Contractor license guide.

The owner-occupant exemption

An owner who lives or will live in the dwelling and applies for a permit to do work on it is exempt from the Dwelling Contractor requirement.^[3] On a new project, the application asks for Dwelling Contractor and Qualifier information unless the applicant says they will be an owner-occupant.^[7]

Side by side

Who pulls the permit

Owner-occupant

Lives or will live in the dwelling
Exempt from the Dwelling Contractor requirement

Contractor

Dwelling Contractor certification
Dwelling Contractor Qualifier
Bond of at least $25,000 or insurance of at least $250,000

To check a contractor's credentials before you sign, use the DSPS license lookup walkthrough.

Next steps for unlisted cities or Check with the city entries

Start with the city's building inspection office, using the link in the table row. Ask which permits and inspections apply to your exact address and scope.

Then ask whether the work needs separate trade permits.

The table covers cities only. If you live outside a listed city, or in an unincorporated area, contact your town or county building inspector. The permit comes from whichever municipality administers the code where you live.^[6]

City guides

These cities have their own page with the details behind their rows:

For the statewide code behind all of them, read what the Uniform Dwelling Code covers and who enforces it.

Quick answers

Who can pull a building permit for a one- or two-family dwelling?

A person holding a Dwelling Contractor or Dwelling Contractor Restricted certification, unless the owner lives or will live in the dwelling.

What does the certificate of financial responsibility require?

A bond of at least $25,000 or general liability insurance of at least $250,000 per occurrence. It is valid for one year.

What if my city says check with the city?

Contact the city's building inspection office and ask which permits and inspections apply to your address and scope.

Sources

U.S. Census Bureau. "City and town population totals, Wisconsin, Vintage 2025." https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/datasets/2020-2025/cities/totals/sub-est2025_55.csv. Accessed October 17, 2026.
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. "Dwelling Contractor (DC) (DSPS)." https://dsps.wi.gov/a-z-professions-list/dwelling-contractor-dc/. Accessed October 17, 2026.
Wisconsin Legislature. "Wis. Stat. 101.654; SPS 305.31." https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/101.654. Accessed October 17, 2026.
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. "Dwelling Contractor Qualifier (DCQ) (DSPS)." https://dsps.wi.gov/a-z-professions-list/dwelling-contractor-qualifier-dcq/. Accessed October 17, 2026.
Wisconsin Legislature. "SPS 305.31(1)(b); Wis. Stat. 101.654(1m)." https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/administrativecode/SPS%20305.31. Accessed October 17, 2026.
Wisconsin Legislature. "SPS 320.08 — Wisconsin Uniform Building Permit." https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/320_325/320/iv/08. Accessed October 17, 2026.
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. "Information for Municipality UDC Permit Reporting under 2015 Act 211." https://dsps.wi.gov/esla-information/municipality-permit-filing-information/. Accessed October 17, 2026.
Wisconsin Legislature. "Chapter SPS 325 Appendix A." https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/sps/safety_and_buildings_and_environment/320_325/325_a/_60?down=1. Accessed October 17, 2026.