In Rock County's unincorporated towns a home occupation is a conditional use, so a conditional use permit from the Plan Commission and Town Board may be required. Cities and villages issue their own home-occupation approvals. The county administers town zoning under Wis. Stat. 59.69.
Because a home occupation is typically listed as a conditional use in the town zoning ordinances the county administers, running one may require a conditional use permit rather than being permitted by right. The Plan Commission reviews the application, holds a public hearing, and recommends approval, conditional approval, or denial to the Town Board, which grants the permit under Wis. Stat. 59.69 procedures. The use must remain incidental to the residence with no external alteration changing its residential character. In Janesville, Beloit, and the villages, apply through the municipal zoning or building department. Contact the town clerk and Rock County Planning to confirm the process and fees.
Operating without a required conditional use permit, or breaching its conditions, can lead to permit revocation, an order to cease, and daily forfeitures under the town or municipal ordinance.
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Rock County, WI
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