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Wisconsin, Manitowoc County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Manitowoc County Plumbing Permit Requirements

In Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, plumbing permit requirements are primarily handled at the local level, with specific regulations for unincorporated areas. Generally, a licensed plumber must obtain permits and perform the work, with an exception for owners of single-family dwellings who occupy their homes. For properties in unincorporated areas of Manitowoc County, a County Zoning-Setback Permit is mandatory for all structures, regardless of cost or size. Additionally, certain land uses in these areas, such as gravel pits or excavation deeper than 5 feet, also require a county permit. Shoreland zoning ordinances may impose further requirements, including impervious surface calculations and potential filling and grading permits, especially for properties within 300 feet of navigable water.

The City of Manitowoc also has its own set of permit requirements and fee schedules for plumbing work within the city limits. These include specific fees for plumbing permits and sanitary sewer connections, with penalties for commencing work without a permit.

Wisconsin state law requires a plumbing license for most plumbing installations, with exemptions for property owners performing work in their own occupied single-family dwellings and for farmers on their own farm buildings, unless a local ordinance requires a license. A master plumber must be in charge of all plumbing installations, and they are responsible for ensuring proper installation and compliance with the Wisconsin Uniform Plumbing Code.

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Note: The following state-wide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Wisconsin, including Manitowoc County.

Wisconsin Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Wisconsin Plumbing Code and Legislation

Wisconsin maintains its own unique, state-specific plumbing code rather than adopting the International Plumbing Code (IPC) or Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). The state's plumbing regulations are codified in the Wisconsin Administrative Code, specifically Chapters SPS 381 through SPS 387. These chapters establish the statewide standards for the design, construction, installation, supervision, maintenance, and inspection of plumbing systems.

The primary state agency responsible for setting and administering these standards is the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). The DSPS Plumbing Division oversees plumbing licensure, code adoption, product approvals, and industry oversight. The authority for these regulations is derived from Chapter 145 of the Wisconsin Statutes, which mandates the regulation of plumbing practices to protect public health and safety.

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Select a City in Manitowoc County

If your project is located within incorporated city limits, you will likely need to follow municipal ordinances rather than county rules. Select your city below to view local regulations.

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