Accessory Structures in Milwaukee, WI (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Milwaukee allows 1 ADU per lot with a single- or two-family home under MCO Chapter 295. Owner-occupancy required for the principal unit. Detached ADU: min 1.5 ft side, 4 ft rear setbacks.
Milwaukee ADU Policy and Regulations
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Milwaukee permits ADUs (often called 'secondary units' or 'in-law apartments') under Code of Ordinances Chapter 295 (Zoning). The 2019 zoning revisions allow ADUs by right in RS-2, RS-3, RS-5, and RS-6 single-family districts. Permits issue through the Department of Neighborhood Services (DNS) via the LMS Online portal. Wisconsin SPS 320-325 commercial/residential building codes apply.
Milwaukee ADU Permits
Some RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Milwaukee does not charge development impact fees on residential ADUs. Wisconsin Statute 66.0617 authorizes impact fees broadly but requires demonstration of new capacity need. Milwaukee currently charges only standard permit fees through DNS. Milwaukee Water Works charges connection fees only when a new service is installed.
Milwaukee ADU Impact Fees
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Milwaukee does not require owner-occupancy for ADU properties under Chapter 295. Property owners may build an ADU and rent both units to separate tenants. Wisconsin has no state preemption on owner-occupancy (unlike California's AB 671). Condominium and HOA covenants under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 703 (Condominium Ownership Act) may impose owner-occupancy.
Milwaukee ADU Owner Occupancy
Few RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Milwaukee requires Residential Rental Inspection Certificates under Chapter 200-32 for rental properties, including ADUs. Wisconsin Statute 66.0436 limits municipal rental licensing but Milwaukee's program is grandfathered. Short-term rentals require room tax registration and compliance with Chapter 200-26. Wisconsin Act 59 (2017) preempted local STR bans but allows reasonable regulation.
Milwaukee ADU Rental Restrictions
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Sheds and accessory structures in Milwaukee follow Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code (SPS 320–325) and MCO Chapter 295. Permits typically required for structures over 144–200 sq ft.
Milwaukee Shed & Outbuilding Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions to living space require building permits from DNS and must comply with MCO Chapter 240 (1-2 family) and zoning Chapter 295. May qualify as an ADU.
Milwaukee Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Milwaukee carports require a building permit, must meet garage-style setbacks, and cannot exceed 22 feet in height. Canvas and temporary carports are restricted to 180 days.
Accessory Structures: Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Milwaukee does not permit tiny homes on wheels as permanent dwellings. Tiny houses on foundations must meet the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code minimum 400 square feet.
Accessory Structures: Tiny Homes
Heavy Restrictions2017 Wisconsin Act 67
2017 WISCONSIN ACT 67. An Act to renumber and amend 59.694 (7) (c) and 62.23 (7) (e) 7.; to amend 59.69 (10e) (title), 59.69 (10e) (a) 1., 59.69 (10e) (b), 60.61 (5e) (title), 60.61 (5e) (a) 1., 60.61 (5e) (b), 62.23 (7) (hb) (title), 62.23 (7) (hb) 1. a. and 62.23 (7) (hb) 2.; and to create 59.69 (5e), 59.694 (7) (c) 1., 59.694 (7) (c) 3., 60.61 (4e), 60.62 (4e), 62.23 (7) (de), 62.23 (7) (e) ...
Looking for Milwaukee County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Milwaukee city rules.
Accessory Structures in Milwaukee County →