Permit Requirements for Scandinavia, Wisconsin
For Plumbing projects in Scandinavia, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Waupaca County.
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
Most jurisdictions require permits for Plumbing work to ensure safety and code compliance. The governing body responsible for issuing these permits varies by specific location:
General Plumbing Guidelines
Permits are usually required for new installations, structural modifications, or major repairs. While minor maintenance or cosmetic updates may be exempt, landowners should always verify local codes before work begins.
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Because Scandinavia is located within Waupaca County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Wisconsin, Waupaca County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Waupaca County Plumbing Permit Requirements
Waupaca County's Building Inspection Department, in conjunction with General Engineering, handles building permits for specific unincorporated townships, including Dupont, Farmington, Helvetia, Iola, Lind, Matteson, Scandinavia, Union, Waupaca, and Wyoming. For properties in other townships, it's necessary to consult a separate list. Initial contact for any project in these townships should be made with the Planning & Zoning Office at 715-258-6255 to determine if a Land Use Permit is required. Land Use Permits are necessary for new or replacement structures, structural modifications, and business operations in unincorporated areas. Building Permits, which focus on compliance with Uniform Dwelling Codes, cannot be issued until a Land Use Permit is obtained.
Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work may require a Building Permit depending on the project's nature. Simple replacements of fixtures like faucets or electrical outlets generally do not require a permit. However, it is always best to confirm with the Building Inspector.
For properties in unincorporated areas, a Land Use Permit is required for all structures built or moved onto the property. This permit reviews property use and setbacks. A property address/fire number from the Land Information Office (715-258-6496) is a prerequisite for obtaining any permit. New or replacement dwellings and some additions may also require a sanitary permit or system evaluation. A detailed site plan showing setbacks is mandatory.
Building Permits are generally required for new one- and two-family homes, remodeling and additions exceeding $5,000 in assessed value or 100 square feet, and accessory structures over 200 square feet. Land Use Permits are required regardless of size or value.
Waupaca County adopts various Wisconsin Administrative Codes, including Chapters SPS 381-387 for the Uniform Plumbing Code.
In Wisconsin, a plumbing license is generally required to install plumbing. However, an exemption exists for property owners performing work on a one-family dwelling they own and occupy as their primary residence. This exemption does not apply to new construction or rental properties.
All plumbing installations must comply with the Wisconsin Uniform Plumbing Code.
Permit applications can be submitted online through the Waupaca County Building Permit Application portal.
Resources to Learn More
- Waupaca County Building Inspection Department:
- Waupaca County Planning & Zoning Office:
- Waupaca County Online Permit Application Portal:
- Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) - Plumbing:
- Wisconsin Legislature - Chapter 145 (Plumbing):
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Wisconsin:
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.
Resources to Learn More