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.
Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa Municipal Code Chapter 7.46 (Noise) within Title 7 prohibits unreasonably loud, disturbing noise that injures the health, peace, or comfort of othe...
Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa requires pets to be confined by leash, pen, or fence on owner's property. Persistent barking is a nuisance violation under Ch. 7.46. Residents may ...
Wauwatosa, WI
RV and boat storage in Wauwatosa residential areas is regulated by city zoning. Generally one RV permitted on a residential lot with setback requirements. Fr...
Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa street parking follows local signage and Wisconsin traffic law. No city-wide overnight parking ban unless posted. Snow emergency restrictions apply...
Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa requires vehicles parked on improved surfaces. Front lawn parking prohibited. Driveway modifications require permits.
Wauwatosa, WI
Abandoned vehicles in Wauwatosa are regulated under state law (Wis. Stat. §342.40) and city nuisance ordinances. Inoperable or unlicensed vehicles visible fr...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Milwaukee County.
See how Wauwatosa's setback rules rules stack up against other locations.
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