Bolthole Index

Grant County, Wisconsin

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

79Index Score / 100
#2 of 72 in Wisconsin

Grant County, Wisconsin requires a building permit for a new one- or two-family home under Wisconsin's statewide Uniform Dwelling Code, and the county's Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department administers building, zoning, and septic review1. County comprehensive zoning applies in a named group of unincorporated towns, while rules outside that group must be confirmed parcel by parcel2. A sanitary permit must be issued before a zoning permit for a new home in a zoned town3.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for new 1- and 2-family homes under the statewide Uniform Dwelling Code, issued through the county's Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Dept1
Zoning
County zoning ordinance applies in a list of named unincorporated towns; other towns and incorporated areas may zone themselves45
Septic
County-administered POWTS permits; $400 for most systems under 1,000 gpd, $500 for larger systems63
Owner-builder exemption
Yes: an owner who occupies or will occupy the home can pull the construction and erosion-control permits without a certified Dwelling Contractor7
RV / camping on raw land
Planned campgrounds in covered districts are seasonal and cap each trailer or campsite at 30 days; rules for one RV on an ordinary private parcel are unconfirmed8
Minimum home size
District-specific: 800 sq ft in Farmland Preservation/Agricultural districts, 1,200 sq ft in Residential R-1, down to 300 sq ft in R-3 and Conservancy-Forestry-Recreation9
Minimum lot size
District-specific: 1-3 acres in Agricultural districts, 4 acres in Conservancy-Forestry-Recreation, 4,000-6,000 sq ft in Residential R-1 through R-310
Septic soil difficulty
Only 2.8% of county soils are free of severe limits for a conventional drain field11

Who to call

Building permits

Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department

Uniform Dwelling Code building permits (new one- and two-family dwellings), issued after zoning and sanitary permit numbers are on file

(608) 723-6080

150 W Alona Lane, Lancaster, WI 53813

Zoning

Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department

Zoning permits, shoreland and floodplain permit applications, and the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance for the 18 towns under county zoning

(608) 723-6080

150 W Alona Lane, Lancaster, WI 53813

Septic permits

Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department

Sanitary (POWTS/septic) permit applications, soil evaluation reports, and the 3-year POWTS maintenance program for Grant County

(608) 723-6080

150 W Alona Lane, Lancaster, WI 53813

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 28, 2026.

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

Yes. Wisconsin's statewide Uniform Dwelling Code requires a building permit for every new one- or two-family dwelling, and construction can't begin until plans are approved and the permit is issued and posted12. In Grant County, that permit is issued through the Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department, which also handles the county's zoning and septic review13. Inspections follow at each phase of construction: call before covering up any work, and the inspector has two business days after your request to inspect before you can proceed14. The dwelling's exterior must be finished within two years of permit issuance, and occupancy follows a final inspection that finds no major health or safety violations15. One sequencing rule matters for planning: a building permit can't be issued for a new dwelling using a septic system until a sanitary permit is already on file16.

Who is the Grant County building department, and how do you reach them?

The Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department handles building, zoning, and septic permits from one office at 150 W Alona Lane in Lancaster, phone (608) 723-608013. Office hours run Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Friday 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.13. Because zoning, septic, and building permits are sequenced (sanitary before zoning before building), plan to work with this same department through the whole process rather than separate agencies17.

Does Grant County have zoning?

Yes, but the administering jurisdiction varies. Grant County lists Boscobel, Clifton, Ellenboro, Fennimore, Harrison, Hickory Grove, Jamestown, Liberty, Lima, Millville, Mt. Hope, Mt. Ida, Muscoda, Paris, Potosi, South Lancaster, Watterstown, and Wingville as the towns where its ordinances apply2. The county materials do not establish whether every omitted town is unzoned or instead follows town, municipal, or extraterritorial zoning, so confirm the parcel's jurisdiction with the zoning office218. Where county comprehensive zoning applies, the ordinance uses agricultural, residential, commercial, industrial, conservancy, and overlay districts19. Minimum dwelling and lot sizes vary by district: Agricultural A-1 calls for at least 3 acres and an 800-square-foot dwelling, while Residential R-1 calls for 6,000 square feet of lot area and a 1,200-square-foot dwelling910. Road-centerline setbacks also vary by road class20. Agricultural, accessory, and agriculture-related uses are allowed without a conditional-use permit in the Farmland Preservation district, subject to the district rules21.

How do septic permits work in Grant County?

Every private onsite wastewater treatment system (POWTS) in Grant County needs a permit before installation, issued by the Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department, and it must be installed by a Wisconsin-licensed Master Plumber or Master Restricted Sewer Plumber3. Permit fees run $400 for listed systems under 1,000 gallons per day and $500 for systems over that design flow3. In zoned towns, a sanitary permit must be issued before a zoning permit can be issued for a new single-family home3. Only 2.8% of county soils are rated without severe limitations for a conventional drain field, so make the soil evaluation an early contingency in a land purchase11. Non-plumbing sanitation systems and vaulted privies remain permit matters rather than automatic off-grid exceptions22. Grant County requires POWTS maintenance every three years after installation; the cycle can be satisfied by inspection or pumping by an authorized Wisconsin professional, followed by certification to the county23. The county must also inspect covered installations, replacements, modifications, reconnections, and removals before service unless an exemption applies24.

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

Grant County's confirmed RV rule addresses planned trailer parks and campgrounds, not a single RV on an ordinary private parcel. In covered unincorporated areas, those planned facilities are limited to specified districts, operate seasonally, and cap each trailer or campsite at 30 days8. Planned campgrounds also need at least 10 acres and may not exceed 10 units per gross usable acre25. We could not confirm a county rule that answers whether a landowner may occupy one RV while building or live in it year-round, so ask the zoning office about the exact parcel and proposed duration before relying on an RV for housing18. We also could not confirm how Grant County classifies a tiny home; ask whether the proposed unit will be treated as a dwelling, manufactured home, trailer, or accessory structure18. A manufactured home installed as a primary dwelling has a state-code path, including installation standards for units produced on or after April 1, 2007, but local zoning and sanitary approvals still apply26.

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

First, confirm whether your parcel sits in one of the towns under county zoning, and if so, identify its zoning district, since that sets your minimum lot size, dwelling size, and setbacks59. Second, if your home will use a septic system, get your soil evaluation and sanitary permit from the Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department first; a sanitary permit must be issued before a zoning permit for a new home273. Third, apply for your zoning permit, budgeting the fee at roughly $1 per $1,000 of estimated construction cost (minimum $100), rising to $2 per $1,000 for projects at or above $300,0001828. Fourth, apply for your Uniform Dwelling Code building permit, which needs your sanitary and zoning permit numbers on file before the building inspector will issue it1317. Fifth, if your land is landlocked, secure an access easement at least 66 feet wide unless one already existed before the town adopted comprehensive zoning17. Sixth, if your driveway will connect to a state highway, apply for a WisDOT connection permit before construction29. Finally, call for inspections at each construction phase before covering the work, and schedule your final inspection before occupying the home14.

What to check before you buy land in Grant County

Septic soils are the biggest constraint here: with only 2.8% of the county's land free of severe limitations for a conventional drain field, get a site evaluation before you commit to a parcel, and budget for a mound, at-grade, or other engineered system11. Confirm whether the parcel falls in one of the towns under county zoning, since that determines minimum lot size, dwelling size, and setbacks; land in a town not on that list may be unzoned or governed by its own town ordinance instead5. If the parcel is near water, check for shoreland zoning, which sets a 75-foot setback from the ordinary high-water mark and a 35-foot height limit within that zone3031. If any part of the parcel is mapped floodplain, a floodplain permit application is required before building there, and floodway construction is far more restricted than floodfringe3233. Grant County's terrain is mixed: 62.8% of land sits at 15% slope or less and 28.6% is wooded, so factor in clearing and grading costs on steeper or timbered parcels3435. Typical property tax runs about 1.4% effectively, with a median bill near $2,683 a year, against a typical home value around $229,957363738.

Watch-outs

  • Grant County zoning only applies in the towns named on the county's zoning page; land in any other town may be unzoned or governed by that town's own ordinance, which changes minimum lot size, dwelling size, and setback answers entirely5.
  • The confirmed 30-day RV limit applies to sites in planned campgrounds; we could not confirm the rule for one RV on an ordinary private parcel, so ask the zoning office before purchase or occupancy818.
  • Tiny-home occupancy and accessory dwelling units aren't addressed by name in the county's zoning ordinance; confirm classification with the Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department before buying land for either18.

Sources

  1. Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning (2026 county census)
  2. Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning – Grant County, quoted and re-checked
  3. Sanitary Permit Application Process, quoted and re-checked
  4. Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning (2026 county census)
  5. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  6. Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning – Grant County (2026 county census)
  7. Wisconsin DSPS - Building a Home in Wisconsin (UDC Guide) (2026 county census)
  8. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  9. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  10. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  11. Share of soils without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field (USDA SSURGO): Bolthole Index county data
  12. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  13. Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department (gcinternetwebsite.co.grant.wi.gov)
  14. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  15. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  16. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  17. Zoning Permit Application Process, quoted and re-checked
  18. Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department (gcinternetwebsite.co.grant.wi.gov)
  19. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, amended May 16, 2023, quoted and re-checked
  20. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  21. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  22. Grant County Sanitary Fee Schedule, quoted and re-checked
  23. Three Year Maintenance Requirement, quoted and re-checked
  24. Grant County Code Chapter 225, Article V: Inspections, quoted and re-checked
  25. Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, quoted and re-checked
  26. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  27. Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department (gcinternetwebsite.co.grant.wi.gov)
  28. Zoning Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  29. State highway connection permits (driveways & more) (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Wisconsin’s Shoreland Management Program (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Minimum Shoreland Wetland Zoning Model Ordinance (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  32. Zoning Permit Application Process, quoted and re-checked
  33. Floodplain Development Basics (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  34. Share of land at 15% slope or less: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Wooded share of land: Bolthole Index county data
  36. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  37. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  38. Typical home value (Zillow): Bolthole Index county data

Written September 28, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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County locator

Grant County in Wisconsin

79
County map
Grant County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score

How Grant County scores

Seclusion76100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency66100% ev.
Admin Boringness46100% ev.
Durability72100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost65100% ev.

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

$230kTypical home
1.4%Property tax
$6,306Land / acre
37.9"Annual rain
5.2% of yrsSevere drought
2.4 / yr (+2.3)Mid-century 100°F days
14.6 daysMid-century dry spell
1.81" (+8.1%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.74×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,229Home insurance / yr
3.4% / yrInsurance growth
0.57%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
4,882People within 30 min
930,724People within 2 hr
23,769Radius comparison (15 mi)
44.8People / sq mi
2%Federal land
62.8%Land at 15% slope or less
2.8%Septic soil without severe limits
19,567 acWorkable land screen
28.6%Wooded land
49.7 tonsBiomass / forest ac
47.1°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Grant County

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

Grant County rules

  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Grant County-administered zoning programs, including floodplain and shoreland zoning, and the county comprehensive zoning ordinance where applicable.

    • The county page separately lists zoning permit, shoreland permit, floodplain permit, comprehensive zoning, floodplain zoning, and shoreland zoning authorities.
    • The county comprehensive zoning ordinance applies through the towns identified by Grant County; incorporated municipalities may have separate authority.
    • Other state, municipal, sanitary, floodplain, shoreland, and land-use approvals may also be required.
    “The jurisdiction of this ordinance includes all unincorporated lands and waters within the boundaries of Grant County, Wisconsin except those extraterritorial lands and waters specifically exempt or excluded as a result of a municipality’s exercise of its extraterritorial zoning power, and then only to the extent of such specific exemption of exclusion.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance Chapter Three, applicable to unincorporated lands and waters within Grant County.
      “The jurisdiction of this ordinance includes all unincorporated lands and waters within the boundaries of Grant County, Wisconsin”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Local zoning across Grant County, including unincorporated areas and towns subject to the Grant County comprehensive zoning ordinance.

    • Grant County’s zoning page identifies the ordinance as applying to these 18 towns: Boscobel, Clifton, Ellenboro, Fennimore, Harrison, Hickory Grove, Jamestown, Liberty, Lima, Millville, Mt. Hope, Mt. Ida, Muscoda, Paris, Potosi, South Lancaster, Watterstown, and Wingville.
    • The comprehensive zoning ordinance states that its jurisdiction includes unincorporated lands and waters in Grant County, except lands and waters specifically exempted or excluded because of municipal extraterritorial zoning.
    • The Grant County municipalities page lists additional towns not included in the 18-town applicability list: Beetown, Bloomington, Cassville, Castle Rock, Glen Haven, Hazel Green, Little Grant, Marion, North Lancaster, Patch Grove, Platteville, Smelser, Waterloo, Woodman, and Wyalusing.
    • The official sources reviewed do not expressly state whether those 15 omitted towns are unzoned or instead operate under their own town, city, village, or extraterritorial zoning rules; omission from the county list is not treated as proof of absence.
    • Shoreland and floodplain zoning may apply separately under other county ordinances and applicable state law.
    “ORDINANCES APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING TOWNS Boscobel Clifton Ellenboro Fennimore Harrison Hickory Grove Jamestown Liberty Lima Millville Mt. Hope MT. Ida Muscoda Paris Potosi South Lancaster Watterstown Wingville”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local-zoning status across Grant County, including county zoning in unincorporated areas and separately administered municipal or extraterritorial areas.
      “ORDINANCES APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING TOWNS Boscobel Clifton Ellenboro Fennimore Harrison Hickory Grove Jamestown Liberty Lima”
    • Varies (with conditions) — The countywide aggregate of township and municipal zoning within Grant County; the county comprehensive zoning ordinance is identified by Grant County as applying to specified towns rather than uniformly to every local jurisdiction.
      “ORDINANCES APPLIES TO THE FOLLOWING TOWNS Boscobel Clifton Ellenboro Fennimore Harrison Hickory Grove Jamestown Liberty Lima Millville Mt. Hope MT. Ida Muscoda Paris Potosi South Lancaster Watterstown Wingville”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Published primary and overlay zoning districts for unincorporated lands of Grant County. Incorporated municipalities and town-specific rules may differ.

    • Overlay district regulations supplement and are in addition to the underlying primary district regulations.
    • District boundaries are shown on official zoning maps and parcel/zoning maps for each zoned township.
    • The county zoning page states the listed ordinances apply to the named towns: Boscobel, Clifton, Ellenboro, Fennimore, Harrison, Hickory Grove, Jamestown, Liberty, Lima, Millville, Mt. Hope, Mt. Ida, Muscoda, Paris, Potosi, South Lancaster, Watterstown, and Wingville.

    primary zoning districts: FP; A-1; A-2; R-1; R-2; R-3; C-1; C-2; M-1; M-2; CFR · overlay zoning districts: Highway Interchange; Forest Fire Protection; Floodplain; Shoreland

    “Primary Zoning Districts: The unincorporated lands of Grant County are hereby divided into following zoning districts:”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Residential and agricultural zoning districts governed by Grant County zoning in unincorporated Grant County, subject to municipality extraterritorial-zoning exclusions.

    • The ordinance table specifies minimum floor areas by district: Farmland Preservation 800 square feet; Agricultural A-1 800 square feet; Agricultural A-2 800 square feet; Residential R-1 1,200 square feet; Residential R-2 400 square feet; Residential R-3 300 square feet; Conservancy Forestry-Recreation 300 square feet.
    • A single manufactured housing unit on an operating farm is exempt from the 24-foot minimum dwelling-width requirement.
    • Any residential dwelling less than 800 square feet in the Agricultural A-1 district requires a conditional use permit and must comply with the ordinance.

    minimum floor area: 800 sq ft (Farmland Preservation, Agricultural A-1, and Agricultural A-2 districts) · minimum floor area: 1200 sq ft (Residential R-1 district) · minimum floor area: 400 sq ft (Residential R-2 district) · minimum floor area: 300 sq ft (Residential R-3 and Conservancy Forestry-Recreation districts)

    “Farmland Preservation - FP 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft Majority use as agriculture 800 sq ft 24 ft 40 ft Agricultural A-1 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft 3 acres 800 sq ft 24 ft 40 ft Agricultural A-2 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft 1 acre 800 sq ft 200 ft 24 ft ₁ 40 ft Residential R-1 12 ft ₂ 50 ft 30 ft 6000 sq ft 1200 sq ft ₃ 90 ft 24 ft 35 ft Residential R-2 10 ft ₄ 45 ft 25 ft 5000 sq ft ₅ 400 sq ft ₆ 60 ft ₇ 24 ft 35 ft Residential R-3 8 ft ₈ 40 ft 20 ft 4000 sq ft ₉ 300 sq ft ₁₀ 50 ft ₁₁ 24 ft 35 ft Conservancy Forestry-Recreation - CFR 40 ft 40 ft 40 ft 4 acres 300 sq ft ₁₂ 200 ft 24 ft 40 ft”
  • Minimum lot sizeDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Lots and parcels in Grant County zoning districts within unincorporated Grant County, subject to the ordinance's extraterritorial-zoning exclusions.

    • The dimensional table specifies minimum lot areas of 3 acres in Agricultural A-1, 1 acre in Agricultural A-2, 6,000 square feet in Residential R-1, 5,000 square feet in Residential R-2, 4,000 square feet in Residential R-3, and 4 acres in Conservancy Forestry-Recreation.
    • Farmland Preservation is listed as majority use as agriculture rather than a numeric minimum lot area in the table.
    • Planned residential development requires a minimum of 10 acres; other planned-development and use-specific requirements may also apply.

    minimum lot area: 3 acres (Agricultural A-1 district) · minimum lot area: 1 acre (Agricultural A-2 district) · minimum lot area: 6000 sq ft (Residential R-1 district) · minimum lot area: 5000 sq ft (Residential R-2 district) · minimum lot area: 4000 sq ft (Residential R-3 district) · minimum lot area: 4 acres (Conservancy Forestry-Recreation district) · minimum land area: 10 acres (Planned residential development)

    “Agricultural A-1 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft 3 acres 800 sq ft 24 ft 40 ft Agricultural A-2 30 ft 30 ft 30 ft 1 acre 800 sq ft 200 ft 24 ft ₁ 40 ft Residential R-1 12 ft ₂ 50 ft 30 ft 6000 sq ft 1200 sq ft ₃ 90 ft 24 ft 35 ft Residential R-2 10 ft ₄ 45 ft 25 ft 5000 sq ft ₅ 400 sq ft ₆ 60 ft ₇ 24 ft 35 ft Residential R-3 8 ft ₈ 40 ft 20 ft 4000 sq ft ₉ 300 sq ft ₁₀ 50 ft ₁₁ 24 ft 35 ft Conservancy Forestry-Recreation - CFR 40 ft 40 ft 40 ft 4 acres 300 sq ft ₁₂ 200 ft 24 ft 40 ft”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • SetbacksDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Required yard, property-line, and highway setbacks for structures and other regulated objects in unincorporated Grant County zoning districts.

    • The dimensional table supplies district-specific front, side, and rear yard requirements; the table notes contain formulas and exceptions for certain districts and uses.
    • Highway setbacks are measured from the roadway centerline or near pair of travel lanes, whichever is more restrictive.
    • The Zoning Administrator may modify a listed centerline setback by no more than 20 feet where the stated existing-structure conditions apply.
    • Setbacks may also be modified by approval of a legal subdivision plat, Planned Unit Development, or a particular ordinance provision.

    highway setback: 110 ft from centerline (Federal and state highways) · highway setback: 70 ft from centerline (County highways) · highway setback: 50 ft from centerline (Town, village, and city highways) · district front/side/rear yards: district-specific text (See Section 3.04 dimensional table)

    “ZONING CLASSIFICATION SETBACK FROM CENTERLINE Federal & State Highways 110 FT County Highways 70 Ft Town, Village, and City Highways 50 Ft”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Planned commercial and planned industrial developments authorized under Grant County zoning in unincorporated Grant County.

    • Planned commercial development may be permitted in Commercial C-1, C-2, Residential R-3, and Flood Plain districts.
    • Planned industrial development may be permitted in Industrial M-1, M-2, Residential R-3, and Flood Plain flood-fringe districts.
    • Other district or use categories may have separate standards; this claim does not generalize the 30% limit to all zoning districts.

    maximum land occupancy by all structures: <= 30 percent of lot area (Planned commercial and planned industrial development)

    “(c) Land Occupancy by Structures: Total land occupancy by all structures shall not exceed 30% of the lot area.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Construction in the unincorporated Grant County shoreland area within 75 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of navigable waters.

    • On or after February 1, 2010, Grant County may not permit construction resulting in a structure taller than 35 feet within the specified 75-foot shoreland area.
    • The shoreland area regulated by this ordinance is in unincorporated Grant County and includes land within 1,000 feet of navigable lakes, ponds, or flowages and within 300 feet of navigable rivers or streams, or to the landward side of the floodplain, whichever is greater.
    • Structure height is measured from the lowest point of any exposed wall at its intersection with the ground to a horizontal line at the highest point of the structure, unless another code section specifies otherwise.
    • An existing lawfully placed structure that does not comply with the required shoreland setback may be vertically expanded unless the vertical expansion would extend more than 35 feet above grade level.
    • Incorporated or annexed areas are subject to the statutory provisions identified in the ordinance rather than this county unincorporated-area scope.

    maximum height within 75 feet of ordinary high-water mark: <= 35 ft (Construction on or after 2010-02-01 within the regulated shoreland area; the ordinance states the county may not permit construction resulting in a taller structure.) · shoreland distance from ordinary high-water mark: <= 75 ft

    “on or after February 1, 2010, a county may not permit any construction that result in a structure taller than 35 feet within 75 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of any navigable waters.”
  • Living in an RVLimited

    Recreational vehicles, campers, tents, and similar temporary recreational structures in planned trailer parks and campgrounds within Grant County zoning jurisdiction.

    • The ordinance applies to unincorporated lands and waters except specified areas excluded through municipal extraterritorial zoning.
    • The county zoning webpage states that the ordinances apply to the listed towns: Boscobel, Clifton, Ellenboro, Fennimore, Harrison, Hickory Grove, Jamestown, Liberty, Lima, Millville, Mt. Hope, Mt. Ida, Muscoda, Paris, Potosi, South Lancaster, Watterstown, and Wingville.
    • A planned unit development requires a planned unit development permit.
    • Trailer parks and campgrounds may be permitted only in C.F.R., Shoreland, and Flood Plain districts.
    • Trailer or campsite use is seasonal only, and no trailer or campsite may be used for more than 30 days.
    • Minimum land area is 10 acres and density is 10 units per gross usable acre.
    • Floodplain developments must provide for flood conditions under the applicable district requirements.

    maximum trailer or campsite occupancy: <= 30 days · minimum campground land area: >= 10 acres · maximum campground density: 10 units per gross usable acre

    “No trailer or campsite is permitted over 30 days.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Recreational-vehicle occupancy in planned trailer parks and campgrounds in the unincorporated areas governed by the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.
      “No trailer or campsite is permitted over 30 days.”
    • Temporary only (with conditions) — Recreational vehicle occupancy in planned trailer parks and campgrounds governed by the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance in applicable unincorporated areas and listed towns.
      “No trailer or campsite is permitted over 30 days.”
  • Camping on your landLimited

    Camping in planned trailer parks and campgrounds in the unincorporated areas governed by the Grant County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.

    • Allowed only in Conservancy-Forestry-Recreation, Shoreland, and Flood Plain districts when the planned campground is permitted.
    • Camping is seasonal only and may not exceed 30 days per trailer or campsite.
    • The planned development must meet the ten-acre minimum and ten-units-per-gross-usable-acre density limit.
    • Accessory uses, including convenience stores and laundry areas, may not occupy more than 10% of gross usable area.
    • Flood-plain developments must provide for flood conditions under the applicable district requirements.

    maximum campsite duration: <= 30 days · minimum campground area: >= 10 acres · maximum campground density: <= 10 units per gross usable acre · maximum accessory-use area: <= 10 percent of gross usable area

    “Trailer or camp sites as seasonable uses only.”
  • Accessory dwellingsProhibited

    An independent dwelling unit in an accessory structure in the Grant County R-1, R-2, and R-3 residential districts within the county zoning jurisdiction.

    • In R-1, accessory structures are permitted only when a principal structure is present, and an accessory structure may not be used as a separate dwelling unit.
    • R-2 permits any use permitted in R-1, so the R-1 accessory-structure restriction carries into R-2.
    • R-3 permits any use permitted in R-1, so the R-1 accessory-structure restriction carries into R-3.
    • The ordinance applies to unincorporated lands and waters except specified areas excluded through municipal extraterritorial zoning; the county webpage identifies the towns where the county ordinances apply.
    • This claim does not determine accessory-dwelling rules adopted separately by incorporated municipalities or by towns not listed on the county zoning webpage.
    “no such accessory structure shall be used as a separate dwelling unit”
  • Who permits septicCounty

    Grant County administration of private onsite wastewater treatment system permits and maintenance requirements.

    • The county page identifies sanitary permits, POWTS maintenance, service-provider processing, and a Private Onsite Waste Treatment Systems Ordinance, Chapter 225.
    “Permits Sanaitary Permit Application Sanitary Permit Fees Soil Evaluation Report 3 Year POWTS Maintenance Service Provider and Permit Processing”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Grant County, including new, replacement, modified, holding-tank, in-ground, at-grade, mound, and other listed POWTS types.

    • All state and/or county permits must be issued before the POWTS can be installed.
    • A Wisconsin licensed Master Plumber or Master Restricted Sewer Plumber must install the POWTS.
    • The application must be signed and dated by a Master Plumber and submitted with system plans, soil evaluation, and permit fee.
    • In zoned townships, a sanitary permit is required before a zoning permit can be issued for a new single-family home.
    • Systems other than one- or two-family residential in-ground gravity distribution systems must be sent to the state for review and approval.

    non-pressurized in-ground conventional system under 1000 gpd permit fee: 400 USD · mound, at-grade, pressurized in-ground, or sand blanket system under 1000 gpd permit fee: 400 USD · holding tank under 1000 gpd permit fee: 400 USD · POWTS over 1000 gpd permit fee: 500 USD (with or without pretreatment)

    “All State and/or County Permits must be issued before the POWTS can be installed.”
  • Septic inspectionLimited

    Existing Grant County private onsite wastewater treatment systems subject to the county's three-year maintenance cycle and located in areas not served by public sewer.

    • Proper maintenance is required every three years after system installation.
    • The recurring requirement may be satisfied by inspection or pumping; an inspection is not required if the permitted pumping alternative is used.
    • The inspection or pumping must be performed by a Wisconsin licensed master plumber, master restricted sewer plumber, septic tank pumper, registered POWTS maintainer, or POWTS inspector.
    • A licensed person must certify that the POWTS is in proper operating condition and that the septic tank was pumped or was inspected and is less than one-third full of sludge and scum.
    • The homeowner must return the certification form to the Grant County Conservation, Sanitation, and Zoning Department with the required maintenance fee.
    • Chapter 225 applies to geographic areas of Grant County not served by public sewer.

    maintenance interval: per 3 years after installation · tank inspection sludge and scum threshold: less than one-third full (Applies when inspection is used instead of pumping)

    “The Grant County POWTS Ordinance requires proper maintenance performed every three years after the installation of your system. You will receive notice that it must be inspected or pumped by a Wisconsin licensed master plumber, master restricted sewer plumber, septic tank pumper, registered POWTS maintainer, or a POWTS inspector.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Private onsite wastewater treatment system installations, component replacements, modifications, system reconnections, and removals in Grant County areas not served by public sewer.
      “Each private on-site wastewater treatment system installation, component replacement, modification, system reconnection or removal shall be inspected by the Grant County CS&Z Department pursuant to § SPS 383.26, Wis. Adm. Code, and this chapter to insure that proper materials and methods are used that comply with all applicable Wisconsin Statute and Administrative Codes.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Non-plumbing sanitation systems and vaulted privies in Grant County, as alternatives within the county sanitation permitting framework.

    • Non-plumbing sanitation systems are regulated pursuant to SPS 91.
    • A vaulted privy requires a county permit.
    • The cited county fee schedule does not establish that every possible off-grid sanitation method is authorized.

    non-plumbing sanitation system permit fee: 100 USD (pursuant to SPS 91) · vaulted privy permit fee: 400 USD

    “NON-PLUMBING SANITATION SYSTEMS Non-Plumbing Sanitation Systems (pursuant to SPS 91) $100 Vaulted Privy Permit $400”
  • Agricultural exemptionAvailable

    Agricultural, accessory, agriculture-related, and specified natural-resource uses in Grant County Farmland Preservation zoning districts within unincorporated Grant County.

    • The exemption is district-specific and applies to uses listed as permitted in the Farmland Preservation district; it is not a blanket exemption from all zoning requirements.
    • Uses not listed as permitted or conditional are prohibited in the Farmland Preservation district.
    • Agricultural uses must fall within the ordinance definitions, including crop or forage production, livestock, beekeeping, nursery, floriculture, aquaculture, fur farming, forest management, or other DATCP-identified agricultural uses.
    • Farmland Preservation zoning must follow the setbacks prescribed under Agricultural A-1 and Agricultural A-2 zoning.
    “The following land uses are allowed without a conditional use permit in a Farmland Preservation zoning district: (1) Agricultural Uses (2) Accessory Uses (3) Agriculture-related Uses (4) Undeveloped natural resource and open space areas”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Direct private access and new driveway/access points on public roads in unincorporated Grant County subject to county zoning; township driveway permitting may also apply.

    • A new driveway requires a driveway permit from the Town according to the county permit-process document.
    • If the township has a driveway permit process, no direct private access is permitted to Federal or State Highway rights-of-way, interchange ramps or related roads unless included in construction plans or later allowed by conditional use permit.
    • Direct private access is restricted near intersecting roads: 500 feet for Federal and State Highways, 300 feet for County Highways, and 100 feet for Town, Village, and City Highways.
    • Minimum frontage for direct private access is 400 feet on Federal and State Highways, 200 feet on County Highways, and the applicable lot width on Town, Village, and City Highways.
    • The ordinance lists exceptions for certain signs, agricultural activities, utility facilities, qualifying lots of record, and temporary access permits.

    intersection access restriction on Federal and State Highways: 500 feet · intersection access restriction on County Highways: 300 feet · intersection access restriction on Town, Village, and City Highways: 100 feet · minimum frontage on Federal and State Highways: 400 feet · minimum frontage on County Highways: 200 feet

    “If the township has a driveway permit process, the following will apply:”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Buildings and structures proposed in mapped floodplain areas in Grant County's unincorporated areas.

    • The county zoning-process document states floodplain zones are defined by FEMA.
    • If located in a floodplain zone, a floodplain application is needed.
    • Buildings and structures in a floodplain must comply with any applicable floodplain zoning ordinance.
    • The county comprehensive ordinance defines floodplain boundaries by regional-flood inundation determinations or, otherwise, frequently flooded soils and certain occasionally flooded soils.
    “Buildings and structures to be constructed or placed in a floodplain shall be required to comply with any applicable floodplain zoning ordinance.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Grant County zoning permit fees for projects in unincorporated areas subject to the county zoning ordinance.

    • The fee is based on estimated construction or improvement value.
    • The minimum fee is $100.
    • For projects of $300,000 or greater, the fee increases to $2 per $1,000 of estimated cost.

    zoning permit fee below $300,000: per 1 USD per $1,000 estimated value (minimum $100) · zoning permit fee at or above $300,000: per 2 USD per $1,000 estimated value (minimum $100)

    “For projects $300,000 or greater, increase to $2/$1000 estimated cost. Minimum of $100.00”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County zoning-permit process for projects in unincorporated Grant County; related building and driveway permits may be administered by other authorities.

    • Projects with internal plumbing require a sanitary permit before issuance of a zoning permit.
    • Land-locked parcels require an easement at least 66 feet wide, unless an easement existed before the Town adopted comprehensive zoning.
    • Shoreland and floodplain locations require the applicable applications.
    • A zoning permit application, signature, date, correct fee, and plot plan are required.
    • If staff cannot determine setback compliance, a survey is required before construction.
    • A building permit is needed for a new building with living quarters and is obtained from a building inspector; the inspector needs the sanitary and zoning permit numbers.
    • All zoning permits issued in the Town of Muscoda need approval by the Muscoda Town Board.

    shoreland coverage: 300 feet from ordinary high-water mark of a navigable waterway (The source states vertical distance has no implications on inclusion in the shoreland zone.) · land-locked parcel easement width: >= 66 feet (An easement existing before the Town adopted comprehensive zoning is an alternative.)

    “A sanitary permit is needed prior to the issuance of a zoning permit”

Wisconsin rules that apply here

  • Building permitRequired

    New one- and two-family dwellings covered by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, including covered additions and alterations.

    • The cited brochure states that permit requirements for alterations and additions vary by municipality.
    • Construction begins only after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted.
    • The enforcing jurisdiction may be the municipality, county, or state.
    • Local zoning, land-use, floodplain, sanitary, well, driveway, utility, and other approvals may also be required.
    • A building permit cannot be issued for a new dwelling using a private onsite wastewater treatment system until a sanitary permit has been issued.
    “Begin construction after plans are approved and building permit is issued and posted.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — New one- and two-family dwellings covered by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, including those in Grant County.
      “Begin construction after plans are approved and building permit is issued and posted.”
  • Owner-builder exemptionConditional

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

    • The owner must occupy the home currently or will occupy it after completion.
    • The exemption permits the owner to take out the construction and erosion-control permits without the state-certified Dwelling Contractor and Dwelling Contractor Qualifier arrangement described for contractors.
    • The owner-occupancy statement must be checked on the permit application if the applicant does not possess Dwelling Contractor certification.
    • The source describes an owner-occupancy condition; it does not establish a general exemption for non-occupant owners.
    “The construction and erosion control permits must be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor, who also employs a state-certified Dwelling Contractor Qualifier, or by the owner who occupies the home currently or will after completion.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Conditional — The construction and erosion-control permits for a new one- or two-family dwelling covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, including those in Grant County.
      “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)

    New one- and two-family dwellings in Grant County, Wisconsin, under Wisconsin's statewide Uniform Dwelling Code.

    • The UDC covers new one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980 and their additions and alterations.
    • Covered structures include seasonal and recreational dwellings, one- and two-family condominium buildings, certain single-family residences connected to a commercial occupancy, community-based residential facilities with up to eight residents, manufactured/modular/panelized homes, specified additions to mobile or manufactured homes, manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007, non-residential buildings converted to dwellings, and specified Bed and Breakfast Inn additions.
    • The UDC does not cover dwellings built before June 1, 1980 or additions and alterations to those dwellings, manufacture of mobile/manufactured homes subject to federal standards, multi-unit residential buildings with three or more units regulated by state commercial building codes, or detached garages and accessory buildings.
    • For UDC homes, construction begins after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted; required sanitary or well permits, floodplain/zoning/land-use approvals, driveway or other local permits, utility approvals, plans, fees, and inspections may also apply.
    • The UDC is primarily enforced by municipal or county building inspectors who must be state-certified; municipalities may instead elect state enforcement for just new homes.
    • Permit requirements for alterations and additions vary by municipality, but state statutes require owners and builders to comply with UDC rules even if there is no enforcement.
    • The construction and erosion-control permits may be taken out by a state-certified Dwelling Contractor meeting the stated qualifier requirement or by the owner who currently occupies or will occupy the home.

    covered dwelling age threshold: June 1, 1980 (Dwellings built before this date are not covered by the UDC construction and heating code described in the brochure.) · maximum residents for covered community-based residential facility: <= 8 residents · manufactured-home installation threshold: >= April 1, 2007 (The brochure specifies installation of manufactured homes produced on or after this date.)

    “The statewide code for new homes in Wisconsin is the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), SPS 320-325 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code and its adopted references. It is a uniform building code that applies across the state. Municipalities may not adopt a more or less stringent code.”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New one- and two-family dwellings in Grant County covered by Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code.
      “The statewide code for new homes in Wisconsin is the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), SPS 320-325 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code and its adopted references. It is a uniform building code that applies across the state. Municipalities may not adopt a more or less stringent code.”
    • 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) — Public buildings, places of employment, and multifamily buildings subject to Wisconsin's 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”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Each phase of construction of a one- or two-family dwelling governed by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code.

    • Inspections are called for before each phase is covered up.
    • The local inspector’s instructions apply.
    • The inspector has two business days after the inspection request and the work being ready to inspect before the work may be covered.
    • Inspections check compliance with the code and may also check compliance with approved plans.
    • The UDC is enforced by municipal or county building inspection departments or the Wisconsin Division of Industry Services.

    inspection response period: 2 business days (After the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before the work may be covered up.)

    “Call for inspections of each phase of construction prior to covering it up - check the local inspector’s instructions. The inspector has two business days after the date that you make the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before you may cover up the work. Inspectors will check for compliance with the code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Construction of new one- and two-family dwellings covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, including those in Grant County.
      “Call for inspections of each phase of construction prior to covering it up - check the local inspector’s instructions. The inspector has two business days after the date that you make the inspection request and the work is ready to inspect, before you may cover up the work. Inspectors will check for compliance with the code.”
  • 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 new one- and two-family dwellings covered by the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code, including those in Grant County.
      “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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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

    Occupancy of recreational vehicles, including recreation trailers, pickup truck campers, motor homes, camper vans, and truck campers, at Wisconsin State Park System campsites.

    • Camping reservations are required before setting up on any site.
    • Wheeled camping units must be parked on the campsite driveway.
    • 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.

    recreational vehicles per campsite: <= 1 unit (Pickup campers or motor homes pulling a trailer are treated as a single unit.)

    “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.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • 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.”
  • 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

    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 Uniform Dwelling Code applies to new one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980 and their additions and alterations.
    • The UDC is enforced by municipal or county building inspection departments or the Wisconsin Division of Industry Services.
    • Permit requirements for alterations and additions vary by municipality.
    • Construction begins only after plans are approved and the building permit is issued and posted.
    • Counties enforce the statewide UDC; the source does not establish authority for counties to adopt a separate, more or less stringent residential 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.”

Still unanswered

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

  • Tiny homes — Occupancy of tiny homes in the unincorporated areas subject to Grant County zoning.
  • Mandatory utility hookup — Water and sewer connection requirements for property in Grant County, including whether public utility connection is mandatory or conditional.

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

Living off-grid in Grant County, Wisconsin

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

Grant County scores 79/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: sparse surroundings — about 4,882 people within a 30-minute drive and mixed durability signals.

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

Grant County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Grant County Conservation, Sanitation & Zoning Department. Owner-builders may act as their own contractor to build their home. These answers are quoted from official sources and independently re-checked. Rules change and cities within the county differ — always confirm with the county before you buy or build.

How much does land cost in Grant County, Wisconsin?

Land in Grant County runs about $6,306 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Grant County?

Grant County gets about 37.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 5.2% of years.

How remote is Grant County?

A representative private-land location has about 4,882 people within a 30-minute drive and 930,724 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.

Off-grid gear

Going off-grid in Grant County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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How Grant compares in Wisconsin

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