Wisconsin Statute § 59.692 and Wisconsin Administrative Code NR 115 establish uniform statewide shoreland zoning standards including setback requirements from navigable waters. Counties must adopt these minimum standards, and municipalities cannot impose more restrictive shoreland setbacks.
Under Wis. Stat. § 59.692, counties must adopt shoreland zoning ordinances meeting state minimum standards under NR 115. The standard structure setback from the ordinary high water mark of navigable waters is 75 feet. 2015 Wisconsin Act 55 expanded preemption, prohibiting counties and municipalities from enacting shoreland zoning ordinances stricter than NR 115. This includes setback distances, impervious surface limits, and vegetation buffers. Local governments retain authority over non-shoreland zoning but cannot regulate shoreland properties beyond state standards.
Construction within the 75-foot shoreland setback without a permit may require removal, restoration, and forfeitures. Counties enforce through zoning administrators with appeals to boards of adjustment.
Waukesha, WI
Waukesha regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound amplification permits available for events. WI Stat. §947.01 applies.
Waukesha, WI
Waukesha considers excessive barking a nuisance. Animal control handles complaints. WI Stat. §174 covers dog regulation statewide.
Waukesha, WI
Waukesha enforces quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. County seat city with 73,000+ residents west of Milwaukee. Historic spring water heritage and revitalized d...
Waukesha, WI
Waukesha enforces downtown parking with time limits and meters. Fox River corridor redevelopment areas have evolving parking requirements. Winter alternate-s...
Waukesha, WI
Waukesha restricts commercial vehicle parking in residential zones. Weight, size, and signage limits apply. Overnight heavy truck storage prohibited.
Waukesha, WI
Waukesha requires vehicles parked on improved surfaces. Front lawn parking prohibited. Driveway modifications require permits.
See how Waukesha's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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