Milwaukee does not charge development impact fees on residential ADUs. Wisconsin Statute 66.0617 authorizes impact fees broadly but requires demonstration of new capacity need. Milwaukee currently charges only standard permit fees through DNS. Milwaukee Water Works charges connection fees only when a new service is installed.
Milwaukee has not adopted ADU-specific impact fees. Wisconsin Statute 66.0617 (Impact Fees) allows municipalities to charge impact fees for transportation, water, sewer, stormwater, parks, and public safety, but requires a fee study demonstrating new capacity need. Milwaukee's impact fees, where adopted, focus on commercial and large multi-family development. Standard ADU fees: zoning verification fee; building permit fees scaled to construction value (typically 1-1.5 percent); electrical, plumbing, and HVAC permit fees per trade. Milwaukee Water Works charges sewer and water connection fees only if a new service line is installed; shared utilities with the primary dwelling avoid these charges. Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) charges are typically rolled into water billing. Historic Preservation Commission review fees apply in designated districts. The Milwaukee Common Council has periodically discussed ADU fee waivers as part of affordable housing strategy.
Failure to pay permit fees blocks permit issuance and inspection scheduling. Unpermitted construction triggers Chapter 295 Section 295-905 fines ($200-$2,500 per offense). Wisconsin DSPS may impose additional penalties for unlicensed plumbing/electrical work. Liens may be filed for unpaid permit and inspection fees.
Milwaukee, WI
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Milwaukee, WI
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Milwaukee, WI
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Milwaukee, WI
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Milwaukee, WI
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See how Milwaukee's adu impact fees rules stack up against other locations.
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