Before You Build in Kaukauna, WI: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

WI Stat. §90.02 to 90.14 provides line fence cost-sharing for rural/agricultural land. Urban residential fences: each owner responsible for their own.

The City of Kaukauna's Residential Fence Code Requirements limit front yard fences to 3 1/2 feet in height with 50% visibility, while side and rear yard fences may reach up to 6 feet. A fence permit is required (currently $60) and is processed through Cloud Permit by the Building Inspector at 144 W. Second Street. Corner lots are also subject to a vision clearance rule that bars any fence, wall, hedge, planting, or structure from obstructing vision more than 2 1/2 feet above street centerlines within 50 feet of street intersections and 10 feet of street-alley intersections. The local zoning code is adopted under the authority of Wis. Stat. Sec. 62.23.

Kaukauna requires pool barriers to prevent unsupervised child access. Minimum 48-inch height. Self-closing, self-latching gates. WI Stat. §145.17.

Kaukauna requires building permits for pools, spas, and hot tubs. WI Uniform Dwelling Code governs. Inspections required.

Kaukauna enforces pool safety requirements including anti-entrapment drain covers (VGB Act), barriers, and depth markers. WI Stat. §145.17 governs.

The City of Kaukauna's zoning code (Chapter 17 of the Municipal Code) does not contain a dedicated accessory dwelling unit (ADU) provision. Sec. 17.03 defines an 'accessory use or structure' as one customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use, and 'utility storage structures' as 'uninhabited' subordinate structures located in the rear yard. Two-family dwellings are permitted in the RTF Residential Two-Family District (Sec. 17.18) on a 9,000 sq ft minimum lot, and multifamily dwellings in the RMF District (Sec. 17.19). The RSF Residential Single-Family District (Sec. 17.16) permits only single-family dwellings on 7,200 sq ft lots. Property owners seeking an ADU should contact the Planning and Community Development Department before any construction.

Sheds in Kaukauna are utility storage structures under Chapter 17 of the Zoning Code. One utility storage shed is allowed in addition to a detached garage and the principal structure. Sheds must be a maximum of 170 square feet, located in the rear yard, and anchored to the earth. Storage sheds 100 square feet and larger must have a concrete floor. Sheds larger than 170 square feet are reclassified as a detached garage and follow the larger garage permit and setback rules. The shed permit fee is $60.00.

Kaukauna regulates outdoor burning with permits required. Wisconsin DNR burn restrictions apply during dry conditions. Recreational fire pits allowed with clearance requirements.