Wisconsin, Marinette County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

Marinette County, Wisconsin: Remodeling and Renovation Permit Requirements

Marinette County's Building & Safety Division is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for building permits within unincorporated areas of the county. If your property is located within an incorporated city, that city's building department will handle permit requirements.

Unincorporated Areas

For properties in unincorporated areas of Marinette County, the county itself issues building permits.

Demolition Work During Remodels

While specific triggers for demolition permits during a remodel are not detailed in the provided search results for Marinette County, generally, any demolition work may require a permit. For instance, the Town of Beaver requires a "Razing permit" for any razing of existing structures. In general, demolition projects may require notification to the Wisconsin DNR, especially if asbestos is involved or if the structure is commercial or multi-family. It is advisable to contact the local building department to confirm specific requirements for demolition within a remodel project.

Converting Non-Living Spaces to Habitable Areas

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas typically requires a building permit in Wisconsin. This is because such conversions alter the use of the space and often involve structural, electrical, and plumbing modifications that must comply with the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC).

Garages:

Converting a garage into living space requires a building permit and must meet habitable space requirements under the UDC. This process often involves submitting detailed plans outlining structural changes, electrical wiring, plumbing alterations, and mechanical system updates. Zoning requirements, such as setback limitations and lot coverage, must also be met.

Attics:

Building new rooms in an attic, including bathrooms, requires plan submission before permits are issued. Plans are reviewed to ensure compliance with state building codes. Key considerations include ensuring adequate means of egress (often requiring two legal exits from each floor), structural integrity to support new loads, and sufficient ceiling height (at least 7 feet for 50% of the floor space). Windows must be appropriately sized for natural light and ventilation.

Unfinished Basements:

Finishing or partially finishing basements requires building permits. The permit application typically needs a floor plan showing the intended use of each area, room dimensions, new wall locations, and any structural changes. Requirements often include adequate natural light and ventilation, proper egress windows for sleeping areas, and hardwired, interconnected smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Electrical and plumbing work associated with basement finishing will also require separate permits.

Resources to Learn More

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

Wisconsin Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

Wisconsin State Building Codes and Legislation for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

Wisconsin's building codes for remodelers and residential renovations are primarily governed by the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). The state adopts and modifies model codes from the International Code Council (ICC) to create its own administrative codes.

1. Specific State Statutes and Codes Adopted

For one- and two-family dwellings, the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC), found in Wisconsin Administrative Code chapters SPS 320-325, applies. This code sets minimum standards for fire safety, structural strength, energy conservation, and general health and safety. The UDC is based on model codes but includes Wisconsin-specific adjustments.
For commercial and multi-family residential buildings, Wisconsin is transitioning to the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) standards, with additional state-specific adjustments. This updated code will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will be found in Wisconsin Administrative Code chapters SPS 361-366. Previously, the state used the 2015 editions of the model codes.
The International Existing Building Code (IEBC) is adopted and modified within Chapter SPS 366 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code, which covers the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition, or relocation of existing buildings.

2. Primary State Board or Agencies

The Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) is the primary state agency responsible for setting and enforcing building codes and standards in Wisconsin.
Local municipalities also play a role in enforcing the UDC and may have their own specific permit requirements.

3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines

Cosmetic vs. Structural Alterations: The UDC covers alterations to one- and two-family dwellings. While inspectors focus on code compliance, "cosmetic or non-code workmanship items will not normally be ordered corrected." However, deviations from approved plans may require revised submittals. The Wisconsin Home Improvement Practices Act (HIPA), found in Chapter ATCP 110 of the Administrative Code, defines "home improvement" broadly to include remodeling, altering, repairing, painting, or modernizing residential property, including additions. The definition of "remodel" in Wis. Stat. § 101.148 specifically means to alter or reconstruct a dwelling, and does not include maintenance or repair work.
When Demolition Guidelines Apply: Demolition activities require a demolition permit, which ensures compliance with local building codes and zoning laws. Specific requirements may include asbestos inspections for buildings constructed before the 1980s, utility clearances, and environmental inspections. In some municipalities, like Milwaukee, there are specific deconstruction ordinances for older structures to maximize salvageable materials. For demolition permits, all utility connections must be sealed and plugged, and a permit for boarding is not required if a demolition permit is obtained.

Resources to Learn More

Select a City in Marinette 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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