Bolthole Index

Green Lake County, Wisconsin

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Green Lake County, Wisconsin

66Index Score / 100
#45 of 72 in Wisconsin

Green Lake County, Wisconsin requires a Uniform Dwelling Code permit for a new one- or two-family home, including a manufactured-home installation1. General county zoning applies in six towns, while shoreland and floodplain rules also reach the four towns that did not adopt general zoning2. Green Lake County requires a separate sanitary permit for every private septic or non-plumbing sanitation system under its jurisdiction3. An owner-occupant may apply for the construction and erosion-control permits4.

At a glance

Building permit
Required for a new one- or two-family dwelling, including a manufactured-home installation1
Zoning
General county zoning applies in six towns; shoreland and floodplain standards also apply in the other four2
Septic permit
Green Lake County requires a separate permit for every POWTS or non-plumbing sanitation system under Chapter 33453
Owner-builder
An owner-occupant may apply without Dwelling Contractor Certification4
Shoreland limits
Setbacks depend on the applicable lot rules; impervious surface is generally limited to 15% within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark67
RV or tiny home
Long-term occupancy rules could not be confirmed; ask the county and the parcel's town8
Private well
Advance DNR notification is required for most new private wells9

Who to call

Zoning

Green Lake County Land Use Planning & Zoning Department

Land use permits, general zoning administration, comprehensive plan and town zoning-adoption status for unincorporated Green Lake County

920-294-4156

571 County Road A, Green Lake, WI 54941

Septic permits

Green Lake County Land Use Planning & Zoning Department (POWTS Program)

County sanitary (POWTS/septic) permits for private wastewater systems in areas without public sewer

920-294-4156

571 County Road A, Green Lake, WI 54941

Floodplain permits

Green Lake County Land Use Planning & Zoning Department (Floodplain Zoning)

Floodplain zoning administration (Code of Green Lake County, Chapter 300) countywide, including in towns without general zoning

920-294-4156

571 County Road A, Green Lake, WI 54941

Contact details are copied from each office’s official page and were checked against it on September 29, 2026.

Do you need a building permit in Green Lake County, Wisconsin?

Yes. A new one- or two-family home in Green Lake County requires a Uniform Dwelling Code permit, including stick-built, modular and manufactured-home installations1. The UDC supplies statewide construction standards and inspection procedures for those dwellings10. Apply to the municipality with delegated authority or, where none has that authority, to Wisconsin DSPS1. Construction may begin only after plans are approved and the permit is issued and posted11. The inspector named on the permit must inspect the footings, foundation and reinforcement, rough work, insulation and final stage12. A new home using private septic cannot receive its building permit until the sanitary permit has been issued13. Permit requirements for additions and alterations vary by municipality, so ask the assigned UDC inspector before starting that work13.

Who handles building and zoning questions in Green Lake County?

The Green Lake County Land Use Planning & Zoning Department handles county land-use permits, zoning, private septic administration and floodplain zoning141516. Reach the department at 571 County Road A, Green Lake, WI 54941, or call 920-294-415614. For UDC permits and inspections, use the inspector assigned to the municipality; the county publishes town-by-town UDC contacts14. A county land-use permit is required for land disturbance in a zoned town or wherever a county-administered ordinance applies, including shoreland and floodplain jurisdiction17. A complete land-use application normally includes the form, a scaled site plan and a construction-cost-based fee18. Published county land-use fees start at $50 for projects costing $0–$999, while after-the-fact fees are doubled19.

Does Green Lake County have zoning?

General county zoning applies in Berlin, Brooklyn, Green Lake, Mackford, Manchester and Marquette; Kingston, Princeton, Saint Marie and Seneca did not adopt it8. The four non-adopting towns still have land-division, shoreland and floodplain requirements, and incorporated cities or villages may administer their own zoning20. Green Lake County also regulates land division and subdivision under Chapter 31521. The county publishes district names and summary standards, but directs owners to confirm the parcel's designation and controlling authority with department staff22. Shoreland parcels must meet setbacks from lot lines and the ordinary high-water mark, with the exact distance controlled by the applicable lot provisions6. Within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark, impervious surface is generally limited to 15% or the percentage existing before new construction7. We could not confirm parcel-specific setbacks, minimum home size or accessory-dwelling rules; ask the department and the relevant municipality14.

How do septic permits work in Green Lake County?

Green Lake County administers private onsite wastewater systems throughout unincorporated Green Lake County and in incorporated areas that have not adopted their own sanitary code23. Every POWTS and non-plumbing sanitation system under Chapter 334 needs its own application and permit before installation, enlargement, alteration or construction of the structure it will serve3. Standard sanitary permits for listed conventional, mound and similar systems cost $380, while a holding-tank permit costs $455; county-approved adjustments can change those fees24. The installer must leave the system open for county inspection, and the owner must arrange inspection and maintenance every 3 years25. Only about 9.2% of county soils have no severe limitation for a conventional drain field, so arrange a site evaluation early and budget for a parcel-appropriate design26. A new home using private septic cannot receive its building permit before the sanitary permit is issued13.

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

We could not confirm a countywide rule allowing long-term RV living, temporary camping or tiny-home occupancy on private land in Green Lake County. The parcel's town matters because six towns use county general zoning and four did not adopt it; that distinction does not determine the rules inside incorporated municipalities8. Shoreland, floodplain and land-division standards still apply where triggered in the four towns without general county zoning2. A manufactured home installed as a new dwelling falls under the UDC, and local land-use and sanitary approvals still apply127. Before buying or placing an RV, tiny home or manufactured home, ask the Land Use Planning & Zoning Department which county rules apply, then ask the relevant town, city or village about separate occupancy and zoning restrictions14.

How do you build a home in Green Lake County, step by step?

  1. Ask the Land Use Planning & Zoning Department which general-zoning, shoreland, floodplain and land-division rules apply142.
  2. If the home will use private septic, obtain the county sanitary permit before the building permit313.
  3. For a new private well, notify the DNR before drilling; high-capacity wells and other listed exceptions follow separate rules9.
  4. For a driveway on a County Trunk Highway, obtain the county permit; access to a state highway instead requires a WisDOT connection permit2829.
  5. Submit the UDC application, plans, fees and prerequisite approvals to the municipality's authorized inspector or DSPS, as applicable130.
  6. Begin only after approval and permit posting11.
  7. Call the permit inspector for each required stage, and occupy only after final approval1231.

What should you check before buying land in Green Lake County?

Water and soils: only 9.2% of Green Lake County soils have no severe limitation for a conventional septic drain field, so get a site evaluation early26. A new private well generally requires advance DNR notification9. Shoreland: exact setbacks depend on the lot provisions, and impervious surface is generally capped at 15% within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark67. Floodplain: county jurisdiction requires a land-use permit for land disturbance, while new structures, wells and sewage systems are prohibited in a mapped floodway1732. Access: a new County Trunk Highway driveway permit costs $150; town-road rules must be checked with the town, and a state-highway connection requires WisDOT approval2829. Taxes: the effective property-tax rate is about 1.3%, and the median annual bill is about $2,7093334.

Watch-outs

  • Kingston, Princeton, Saint Marie and Seneca have not adopted the county's general zoning ordinance, but land-division, shoreland and floodplain requirements still apply where triggered8.
  • A building permit cannot be issued for a new home on a private septic system until the county sanitary (POWTS) permit is in hand, so sequence your applications accordingly13.
  • Wisconsin's state-park camping rules govern state park campgrounds only and do not answer whether you can live in an RV on your own Green Lake County land35.

Sources

  1. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings) - DSPS, quoted and re-checked
  2. Land Use Planning & Zoning - Green Lake County, WI, quoted and re-checked
  3. Ordinance No. 10-2020: Repealing and Recreating Ch. 334 – Sewage Systems, Private, quoted and re-checked
  4. Instructions for Submitting a UDC Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  5. Ordinance No. 10-2020: Repealing and Recreating Ch. 334 – Sewage Systems, Private, quoted and re-checked
  6. Shoreland Zoning Summary, quoted and re-checked
  7. Land Use Planning & Zoning - Green Lake County, WI, quoted and re-checked
  8. Land Use Planning & Zoning - Green Lake County, WI, quoted and re-checked
  9. Well and heat exchange notification, quoted and re-checked
  10. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings) - DSPS, quoted and re-checked
  11. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  12. UDC (Uniform Dwelling Code / One- and Two-Family Dwellings) - DSPS, quoted and re-checked
  13. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  14. Green Lake County Land Use Planning & Zoning Department (greenlakecountywi.gov)
  15. Green Lake County Land Use Planning & Zoning Department (POWTS Program) (greenlakecountywi.gov)
  16. Green Lake County Land Use Planning & Zoning Department (Floodplain Zoning) (greenlakecountywi.gov)
  17. Land Use Planning & Zoning - Green Lake County, WI, quoted and re-checked
  18. Land Use Planning & Zoning - Green Lake County, WI, quoted and re-checked
  19. Green Lake County Land Use Permit Application, quoted and re-checked
  20. Land Use Planning & Zoning - Green Lake County, WI, quoted and re-checked
  21. Land Use Planning & Zoning, quoted and re-checked
  22. Green Lake County Zoning Districts, quoted and re-checked
  23. Green Lake County Ordinance No. 10-2020, Chapter 334 Private Sewage Systems, quoted and re-checked
  24. Ordinance No. 10-2020: Repealing and Recreating Ch. 334 – Sewage Systems, Private, quoted and re-checked
  25. Ordinance No. 10-2020: Repealing and Recreating Ch. 334 – Sewage Systems, Private, quoted and re-checked
  26. Share of soils without severe limits for a conventional septic drain field (USDA SSURGO): Bolthole Index county data
  27. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  28. Highway - Green Lake County, WI, quoted and re-checked
  29. State highway connection permits (driveways & more) (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  30. Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 320.09 (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  31. Wisconsin’s Uniform Dwelling Code, quoted and re-checked
  32. Floodplain Development Basics (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked
  33. Effective property tax rate: Bolthole Index county data
  34. Median property tax bill: Bolthole Index county data
  35. Camping Rules — Wisconsin State Park System (Wisconsin statewide rule), quoted and re-checked

Written September 29, 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

Green Lake County in Wisconsin

66
County map
Green Lake County highlighted among the Wisconsin counties · colored by Index score

How Green Lake County scores

Seclusion51100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency61100% ev.
Admin Boringness44100% ev.
Durability58100% ev.
Property Autonomy70100% ev.
Carry Cost58100% 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 →

$299kTypical home
1.3%Property tax
$7,669Land / acre
33.9"Annual rain
4.8% of yrsSevere drought
2.1 / yr (+2)Mid-century 100°F days
13.8 daysMid-century dry spell
1.63" (+7.4%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.7×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,294Home insurance / yr
2.6% / yrInsurance growth
1.34%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
16,291People within 30 min
3,340,604People within 2 hr
41,015Radius comparison (15 mi)
55.3People / sq mi
1%Federal land
96%Land at 15% slope or less
9.2%Septic soil without severe limits
19,081 acWorkable land screen
22.7%Wooded land
37.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
45.8°FAvg temp

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Answers from the rulebook for Green Lake County

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

Green Lake County rules

  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    County general zoning in the six towns that adopted the County Zoning Ordinance; shoreland and floodplain ordinances are separately administered county programs.

    • General zoning is adopted in Berlin, Brooklyn, Green Lake, Mackford, Manchester, and Marquette only.
    • Kingston, Princeton, Saint Marie, and Seneca refrained from adopting general zoning requirements.
    • Shoreland and floodplain development standards remain in the four non-general-zoning towns.
    “Of the ten Towns in Green Lake County, six have adopted the County Zoning Ordinance: Town of Berlin, Town of Brooklyn, Town of Green Lake, Town of Mackford, Town of Manchester, and Town of Marquette. The remaining four Towns refrained from adopting general zoning requirements: Town of Kingston, Town of Princeton, Town of Saint Marie, and Town of Seneca.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — County-administered shoreland and floodplain zoning in Green Lake County, with general zoning applying only in the six towns that adopted the County Zoning Ordinance.
      “Of the ten Towns in Green Lake County, six have adopted the County Zoning Ordinance: Town of Berlin, Town of Brooklyn, Town of Green Lake, Town of Mackford, Town of Manchester, and Town of Marquette. The remaining four Towns refrained from adopting general zoning requirements: Town of Kingston, Town of Princeton, Town of Saint Marie, and Town of Seneca.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    Aggregate local-zoning status in Green Lake County, principally the six towns that adopted the County Zoning Ordinance and the four towns that did not adopt general zoning.

    • The County Zoning Ordinance applies in the Towns of Berlin, Brooklyn, Green Lake, Mackford, Manchester, and Marquette.
    • The Towns of Kingston, Princeton, Saint Marie, and Seneca did not adopt general zoning requirements.
    • The four towns without general zoning still have guiding ordinances related to land division and development standards for shoreland and floodplain areas.
    • This aggregate claim does not determine the zoning authority of incorporated municipalities.
    “Of the ten Towns in Green Lake County, six have adopted the County Zoning Ordinance: Town of Berlin, Town of Brooklyn, Town of Green Lake, Town of Mackford, Town of Manchester, and Town of Marquette. The remaining four Towns refrained from adopting general zoning requirements: Town of Kingston, Town of Princeton, Town of Saint Marie, and Town of Seneca.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — County aggregate of general-zoning adoption by towns; incorporated municipalities may administer their own local land-use rules.
      “Of the ten Towns in Green Lake County, six have adopted the County Zoning Ordinance: Town of Berlin, Town of Brooklyn, Town of Green Lake, Town of Mackford, Town of Manchester, and Town of Marquette. The remaining four Towns refrained from adopting general zoning requirements: Town of Kingston, Town of Princeton, Town of Saint Marie, and Town of Seneca.”
  • Zoning districtsPartial

    Published Green Lake County zoning district names and summary standards for the County Zoning Ordinance; applicability is limited by the towns and municipalities that adopted or administer the rules.

    • The official county comparison sheet lists County Zoning districts including A1, A2, NRC, C1, C2, I, M1, M2, RC, R1, R2, R3, R4, and AO, plus MUN Municipality and UNZ Unzoned - Did not adopt Chapter 350.
    • The comparison sheet states that Towns of Kingston, Princeton, Saint Marie, and Seneca did not adopt the County Zoning Ordinance.
    • The comparison sheet states that County Zoning does not have jurisdiction for the referenced municipality category and directs users to local City or Village staff for zoning designation and authority.
    • The comparison sheet is summarized information and directs users to validate it with the County Land Use Planning and Zoning office; it was updated 8/2024.

    document update: 8/2024

    “Minimum area standard for new lots is 1 acre. Towns of Kingston, Princeton, Saint Marie, and Seneca did not adopt the County Zoning Ordinance. However, lands are subject to all other federal, state, and local ordinances and requirements. Contact Department staff with questions.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Shoreland areas regulated by Green Lake County.

    • The shoreland summary states that setbacks are regulated from lot lines and the ordinary high-water mark.
    • The exact setback depends on the applicable shoreland and lot-dimension provisions.
    “Properties with shoreland zoning jurisdiction must adhere to setbacks.”
  • Lot coverageDistrict specific (with conditions)

    Shoreland impervious surfaces within 300 feet of the ordinary high-water mark.

    • New projects may rebuild up to the percentage of impervious surface existing before new construction with a land-use permit.
    • Engineered infiltration measures may count toward mitigation.

    impervious-surface limit: <= 15 percent (Or the percentage existing prior to new construction.)

    “The Shoreland Zoning ordinance has language limiting the impervious surfaces to 15%, or to the percentage existing prior to new construction.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Impervious-surface coverage in regulated Green Lake County shoreland areas.
      “The Shoreland Zoning ordinance has language limiting the impervious surfaces to 15%, or to the percentage existing prior to new construction.”
  • Who permits septicCounty (with conditions)

    Private onsite wastewater treatment systems in Green Lake County where the County Chapter 334 jurisdiction applies.

    • Chapter 334 applies throughout the unincorporated areas of the County, including all lands and waters.
    • Chapter 334 also applies to incorporated areas that have not adopted and do not adopt their own sanitary code or Code.
    • The Land Use Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for administration and enforcement, under the direction of the Land Use Planning and Zoning Director.
    • Chapter 334 incorporates Wisconsin statutes, Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 381-387 and SPS 391, and NR 113 and NR 116, as amended or renumbered.
    • All plumbing fixtures must connect to a public sewer where available; availability is determined by the local sanitary district. Where public sewer is unavailable, a private sewage system must be used.
    “This Chapter shall apply throughout the unincorporated areas of the County, including all lands and waters, and shall apply to those incorporated areas of the County which have not adopted and do not adopt their own sanitary code or Code.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • County (with conditions) — Private onsite wastewater treatment systems in unincorporated Green Lake County and incorporated areas without their own sanitary code.
      “This Chapter shall apply throughout the unincorporated areas of the County, including all lands and waters, and shall apply to those incorporated areas of the County which have not adopted and do not adopt their own sanitary code or Code.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Every POWTS and non-plumbing sanitation system subject to Chapter 334.

    • A separate application and permit is required for every POWTS and non-plumbing sanitation system.
    • Obtain the sanitary permit before structure construction requiring the system and before installing, enlarging, or altering a POWTS.
    • The permit card must remain visible from an abutting road until installation, inspection, and Department approval.
    “Every POWTS and non-plumbing sanitation system shall require a separate application and permit.”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    POWTS subject to Chapter 334.

    • Give final-inspection notice for every installed, modified, or reconnected POWTS.
    • The plumber must schedule installation inspection no later than 24 hours in advance on the business day before installation.
    • Leave the entire system open until inspected and accepted.
    • The owner must contract every three years for POWTS inspection and maintenance after installation or program entry.

    maintenance inspection interval: per 3 years (After a sanitary permit has been issued and the POWTS installed, or after an existing POWTS is added to the maintenance program.)

    “Notice for final inspection shall be given to the Department for all POWTS installed, modified, or reconnected.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Land division and subdivision review administered through Green Lake County land-use authorities.

    • The county identifies land division and subdivision as a county ordinance responsibility under Chapter 315.
    • Local zoning and shoreland/floodplain standards may also apply.
    “Chapter 315 Land Division and Subdivision”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Regulated (with conditions) — Land division and subdivision review in Green Lake County.
      “These Towns still have guiding ordinances related to land division as well as development standards for shoreland and floodplain areas, among other regulations.”
  • Driveway accessRequired

    Excavation, fill, or culvert installation for driveway access on a County Trunk Highway.

    • Applies to county-trunk-highway access; town roads are not covered by this county page.

    new driveway access fee: 150 USD · driveway alteration fee: 50 USD · after-the-fact permit fee: 250 USD

    “C. Driveway Permit – Excavation, Fill or to Install a Culvert Pipe on a County Trunk Highway: (1) Driveway New Access $150.00 (2) Driveway Alteration $50.00 (3) After the Fact Permit $250.00”
  • Building in a floodplainRequired

    Land-disturbing activity within the jurisdiction of Green Lake County’s floodplain ordinance.

    • A land-use permit is required for land-disturbing activity within the ordinance’s jurisdiction.
    • County maintains and enforces the floodplain zoning ordinance pursuant to state statute.
    “A land use permit is required for any land-disturbing activity, including the placement or alteration of any building or structure, within the zoned Towns or within the jurisdiction of the ordinances this Department administers. These ordinances include the federally-required Floodplain Zoning Ordinance, the state-mandated Shoreland Zoning Ordinance, and the County’s Zoning Ordinance, among others.”
  • Permit feesPublished (with conditions)

    Green Lake County land-use permit applications.

    • The fee is based on combined construction cost for multiple projects.
    • Application fees are non-refundable.
    • Renewal fee is the same as the initial fee.
    • After-the-fact permit fees are doubled.

    fee for construction cost $0-$999: 50 USD · fee for construction cost $1000-$99999: 150 USD · fee for construction cost $900000 or more: 1250 USD

    “$0 - $999………$50 [...] $1,000 - $99,999………$150 [...] $900,000 - Or more ………$1,250”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    County land-use permits and Chapter 334 sanitary-permit applications.

    • Land-use application normally requires completed application, scaled site plan, and construction-cost-based application fee.
    • Sanitary application must be on Department forms with applicable fees and listed property, use, soil, plans, maintenance, recording, state-action, and requested information.
    “A complete Land Use Permit application usually consists of three parts: 1. Completed application form 2. Site Plan rendered to scale 3. Application fee, based on cost of construction for the project.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Green Lake County land-use permit applications.
      “A complete Land Use Permit application usually consists of three parts:”

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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — New construction of one- and two-family dwellings in Green Lake County.
      “Begin construction after plans are approved and building permit is issued and posted.”
    • Required — New one- and two-family dwellings, including stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations in Green Lake County.
      “A permit under the UDC is required for new one- and two-family dwelling units. This includes stick-built, modular, and manufactured home installations.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-occupants constructing a one- or two-family dwelling in Green Lake 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.”
    • Available (with conditions) — Owner-occupants applying for Wisconsin UDC erosion-control or construction permits.
      “without a Dwelling Contractor Certification”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Public buildings, places of employment, and multifamily buildings subject to Wisconsin's commercial building code.

    • The Division of Industry Services reviews plans before construction for compliance with state statutes and building codes.
    • Local certified municipalities may provide plan review and inspection services for certain building types.
    • The Wisconsin Commercial Building Code adopted the 2021 ICC effective September 1, 2025; plans submitted November 1, 2025 or later must comply with the updated code.
    • Municipalities may have grandfathered fire detection, prevention, and suppression ordinances under 2013 Act 270.

    2021 ICC adoption date: September 1, 2025 (The deadline for building plan compliance was delayed.) · updated-code plan-submission deadline: November 1, 2025 (Plans submitted on or after this date must comply with the updated Commercial Building Code.)

    “2013 Act 270 establishes a uniform commercial building code in Wisconsin while allowing municipalities to grandfather fire detection, prevention, and suppression ordinances”
    3 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — One- and two-family dwellings in Green Lake County and throughout Wisconsin.
      “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.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — New Wisconsin one- and two-family dwelling units, including manufactured-home installations.
      “The program governing one- and two-family dwelling units (including manufactured homes) is also called the UDC program, referring to the Uniform Dwelling Code. Enforces construction standards and inspection procedures including evaluation of building materials.”
    • Adopted (with conditions) — 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.”
  • 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.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Construction of one- and two-family dwellings subject to the Wisconsin UDC.
      “Call for inspections of each phase of construction prior to covering it up - check the local inspector’s instructions.”
    • Required — New Wisconsin one- and two-family dwellings.
      “The following inspections are required on new one- and two-family dwellings. When ready for inspection, notify the inspector identified on your UDC permit.”
  • 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 one- and two-family dwellings subject to the Wisconsin UDC.
      “Take occupancy after receiving a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found. (Some municipalities will issue occupancy permits.)”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Structures within 75 feet of the ordinary high water mark of navigable waters in Wisconsin shoreland zoning areas.

    • The DNR model ordinance identifies this as the NR 115.05(1)(f) height standard for county shoreland ordinances.
    • The prohibition does not extend beyond 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark under the stated standard.
    • Counties may regulate height beyond 75 feet through local ordinance.

    maximum structure height within 75 feet of ordinary high water mark: <= 35 feet (A structure taller than 35 feet is prohibited within the specified area.)

    “A structure taller than 35 feet within 75 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of any navigable waters is prohibited”
  • Manufactured homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Occupancy of a manufactured home installed as a new one- or two-family dwelling in Wisconsin.

    • The Uniform Dwelling Code applies to new one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980.
    • The UDC includes manufactured homes and the installation of manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007.
    • Occupancy follows a final inspection in which no major health or safety violations are found.
    • Some municipalities issue occupancy permits.
    • The dwelling exterior must be completed within two years after permit issuance.
    • Local sanitary requirements may require certain plumbing systems.
    • Local zoning and land-use requirements may also apply.

    UDC coverage start date: >= 1980-06-01 date (The cited coverage is for new one- and two-family dwellings and their additions and alterations.) · manufactured-home installation coverage start date: >= 2007-04-01 date · exterior completion deadline: <= 2 years after permit issuance

    “The installation of manufactured homes produced on or after April 1, 2007.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Sanitation for buildings with plumbing fixtures that are not connected to a public sewer in Wisconsin.

    • Off-grid wastewater handling must provide for treating, recycling, dispersing, or holding wastewater.
    • Private onsite wastewater treatment systems remain subject to Wisconsin POWTS requirements and applicable plan review or permits.
    • The rule does not establish unrestricted approval for any particular composting toilet, privy, holding tank, or other device.
    “Where plumbing fixtures exist in a building that is not connected to a public sewer system, suitable provision shall be made for treating, recycling, dispersing or holding the wastewater.”
  • Well permitLimited

    Construction of private wells statewide in Wisconsin.

    • A Well Construction Notification Number must be obtained before constructing a new private well that is not a high-capacity well.
    • Exceptions to the notification requirement include high-capacity wells, reconstruction of existing wells, and wells on Native American property; high-capacity wells or other wells requiring written DNR approval follow the approval requirements.
    • Some DNR-approved county ordinances additionally require a well permit before construction.
    • A Well Construction Report must be submitted to DNR within 30 days after construction.

    well construction notification fee: 50.5 USD (Fee and notification number are not refundable or transferable.) · well construction report deadline: 30 days after construction

    “Wisconsin law requires that a property owner provide advance notice to DNR before construction of any new private well that is not a high capacity well, and advance notice of any heat exchange drillhole construction (geothermal system) that does not require a written DNR approval.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — New private wells in Green Lake County.
      “Exceptions to the notification requirement are high capacity wells, reconstruction of existing wells and wells on Native American property.”
  • 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.

  • Minimum dwelling size — Minimum dwelling floor area under county zoning.
  • Minimum lot size — Minimum lot size under Green Lake County zoning or shoreland rules.
  • Living in an RV — Long-term RV occupancy on private land.
  • Camping on your land — Temporary camping on private land.
  • Tiny homes — Tiny homes used as dwellings.
3 more unanswered
  • Accessory dwellings
  • Mandatory utility hookup
  • Agricultural exemption

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 Green Lake County, Wisconsin

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

Green Lake County scores 66/100 on the Bolthole Index, a strong county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and workable self-sufficiency basics (33.9″/yr rainfall).

Do you need a building permit in Green Lake County, Wisconsin?

Green Lake County generally requires a residential building permit, and it enforces county zoning. Onsite septic is permitted by Green Lake County Land Use Planning & Zoning Department (POWTS). 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 Green Lake County, Wisconsin?

Land in Green Lake County runs about $7,669 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Green Lake County?

Green Lake County gets about 33.9" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 4.8% of years.

How remote is Green Lake County?

A representative private-land location has about 16,291 people within a 30-minute drive and 3,340,604 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 Green Lake County means bringing your own water and power. The kit we’d start with:

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How Green Lake compares in Wisconsin

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