Tiny home rules in Appleton, WI — covering tiny houses on wheels (THOWs), park model RVs, and tiny home on foundation builds — determine where they are legal and how they get permitted.
Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code (Wis. Stat. ch. 101 and SPS 320-325) sets statewide construction standards for one- and two-family dwellings, including tiny homes built as permanent dwellings. Local governments cannot impose stricter building code standards than the UDC.
Under Wis. Stat. 101.63 and 101.65, the Department of Safety and Professional Services administers the Uniform Dwelling Code, which applies statewide to new one- and two-family dwellings. Tiny homes built on permanent foundations are treated as dwellings and must meet UDC structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and energy requirements. Towns, villages, and cities cannot adopt building code standards that conflict with or exceed the UDC for these structures. Tiny homes on wheels are regulated as recreational vehicles or manufactured homes under separate state rules. Zoning, lot size, and minimum dwelling-size standards remain a local issue and are not preempted, so siting still depends on municipal zoning.
Building a tiny home without meeting UDC standards or obtaining required state-approved permits can result in stop-work orders, fines, and required removal or remediation by local UDC inspectors.
Appleton, WI
Appleton considers excessive barking a nuisance. Animal control handles complaints. WI Stat. §174 covers dog regulation statewide.
Appleton, WI
Appleton enforces quiet hours 10 PM to 7 AM. The Fox Valley's largest city (pop. 75,000) home to Lawrence University manages noise from College Avenue nightl...
Appleton, WI
Appleton regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound amplification permits available for events. WI Stat. §947.01 applies.
Appleton, WI
Appleton restricts commercial vehicle parking in residential zones. Weight, size, and signage limits apply. Overnight heavy truck storage prohibited.
Appleton, WI
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Appleton, WI
Appleton requires vehicles parked on improved surfaces. Front lawn parking prohibited. Driveway modifications require permits.
See how Appleton's tiny homes rules stack up against other locations.
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