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🌍 Environmental Rules/Coastal Development

Coastal Development: Menasha vs Neenah

How do coastal development rules compare between Menasha, WI and Neenah, WI?

Menasha and Neenah have similar restriction levels.

Menasha, WI

Winnebago County

Heavy Restrictions

Wisconsin's NR 115 sets minimum shoreland zoning standards along navigable waters, and the Public Trust Doctrine protects Great Lakes shores. Counties must adopt rules at least as strict as NR 115 statewide.

View full Menasha rules β†’

Neenah, WI

Winnebago County

Heavy Restrictions

Wisconsin's NR 115 sets minimum shoreland zoning standards along navigable waters, and the Public Trust Doctrine protects Great Lakes shores. Counties must adopt rules at least as strict as NR 115 statewide.

View full Neenah rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactMenashaNeenah
CodeNR 115NR 115
Lake jurisdiction1,000 feet from OHWM1,000 feet from OHWM
Stream jurisdiction300 feet from OHWM300 feet from OHWM
Building setback75 feet from OHWM75 feet from OHWM

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Menasha FAQ

What is the shoreland setback in Wisconsin?

Principal structures must sit at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark of any navigable lake, pond, river, or stream, with limited reductions allowed.

Can my county require stricter shoreland rules?

Counties must meet NR 115 minimums but 2015 Act 55 generally caps stricter local standards. Existing stricter ordinances are preempted unless authorized by statute.

Who owns the Great Lakes shoreline?

Lands below the ordinary high water mark are held in trust for public use under the Public Trust Doctrine. Private upland owners have qualified riparian rights.

Neenah FAQ

What is the shoreland setback in Wisconsin?

Principal structures must sit at least 75 feet from the ordinary high water mark of any navigable lake, pond, river, or stream, with limited reductions allowed.

Can my county require stricter shoreland rules?

Counties must meet NR 115 minimums but 2015 Act 55 generally caps stricter local standards. Existing stricter ordinances are preempted unless authorized by statute.

Who owns the Great Lakes shoreline?

Lands below the ordinary high water mark are held in trust for public use under the Public Trust Doctrine. Private upland owners have qualified riparian rights.

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