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Winnebago County, WI Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)

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

Key Facts

Who inspects
Certified Soil Tester or Plumbing Inspector II
Inspection deadline
Next business day, before backfilling
Advance notice required
At least 24 hours
Winter field-verification hours
10 a.m.-2 p.m., Nov 15-Mar 15
Penalty for violations
$200 plus costs

Summary

Winnebago County requires a licensed zoning staffer to inspect every new private septic system (POWTS) before backfilling, with 24-hour advance notice needed to schedule the visit.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Winnebago County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

(2) INSPECTIONS (a) Private On-Site Wastewater Treatment System: A licensed staff member shall inspect or cause the inspection of all POWTS no later than the next workday after completion of construction (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) but before backfilling. ... (5) ... All requests for inspections shall be made at least 24 hours in advance of the requested time and date of the inspection excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Before any new or replacement POWTS can be backfilled, a Winnebago County-licensed staff member -- a Certified Soil Tester or Plumbing Inspector II -- must inspect it, no later than the next business day after construction finishes, excluding weekends and holidays. Anyone requesting the inspection must notify the Zoning Office at least 24 hours ahead. If a soil test looks questionable, staff verify it in the field on sunny days, with special winter hours (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) reserved for replacement-system testing between November 15 and March 15.

Violations & Fines

Violating the inspection or permit rules is enforced by citation: Sec. 16.10(1)(e) sets a $200 fine plus costs for violations not covered by POWTS's specific penalty schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

When must a Winnebago County POWTS be inspected?
No later than the next business day after construction is complete, excluding weekends and holidays, and always before the excavation is backfilled.
How much notice do I need to give before an inspection?
At least 24 hours, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, per Winnebago County Code Sec. 16.02(2)(a)(5).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Winnebago County

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsBuilding PermitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Aircraft NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome Restrictions

All Winnebago County rules

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