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Milwaukee, WI Building Safety: Elevator Maintenance (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Certificate of operation fee
$125
Governing section
Milwaukee Code § 200-33-13
Enforcing agency
Dept. of Neighborhood Services commissioner
Reinspection fee (each after second)
$220
Inspector entry authority
all buildings except occupied dwellings

Summary

Milwaukee requires periodic inspections and reinspections for every class of elevator, lift, escalator and dumbwaiter, plus a $125 certificate of operation enforced by the Department of Neighborhood Services.

13. ELEVATORS. a. Inspection Fees. Fees for periodic inspections and reinspections of all classes of elevators and lifting devices within the scope of ch. SPS 318, Wis. Adm. Code, shall be as follows: ... c. Certificate of Operation. The fee for a certificate of operation shall be $125.

Source: Milwaukee Code of OrdinancesView official code

Full Breakdown

Chapter 222 requires elevator work in Milwaukee to run through state-licensed contractors and mechanics, and chapter 200's fee schedule backs that up with an ongoing maintenance requirement: owners of every class of elevator, dumbwaiter, escalator, moving walk and personnel hoist must pay periodic inspection and reinspection fees under ch. SPS 318, Wis. Adm. Code, and hold a $125 certificate of operation. The commissioner of neighborhood services and elevator inspectors enforce the rules and may enter any building except occupied dwellings to examine equipment, assisted by police and fire departments if needed.

Violations & Fines

Skipping required inspections or letting a certificate lapse draws escalating reinspection fees -- $140 for a second inspection, $220 for each one after -- and the commissioner can withhold future elevator permits for noncompliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Milwaukee require elevators to be inspected regularly?
Yes. Milwaukee Code § 200-33-13 charges periodic inspection and reinspection fees on every class of elevator, lift, escalator and dumbwaiter, and requires a $125 certificate of operation to keep one in service.
What happens if a Milwaukee elevator fails reinspection?
The Department of Neighborhood Services charges $140 for the second inspection and $220 for each one after, and under § 222-52 the commissioner can withhold future permits from a noncompliant contractor.

Sources & Official References

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All Milwaukee rules

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