Shoreland Permit Procedures

When

A Shoreland Permit (PDF) is required when one of the following projects occurs within the unincorporated Townships or the Village of Somers. Note: the more common projects that occur within the County include, but are not limited to the following:

• Shoreline stabilization
  This includes projects, such as retaining walls, riprap or bio-revetment installation to prevent erosion.
• Fill placement
  This includes projects designed to improve drainage in the shoreyard (provided it is not a zoned wetland), or fill used in the foundation of new home construction beyond "usual and customary" amounts normally used for home site development.
• Dredging or removal of sediments from streams or lake beds
  This includes agricultural sediment removal projects or dredging near the shoreline for watercraft docking.
• Earth movement/grading, major landscaping and berms

For a more comprehensive list of permissible projects, consult the Kenosha County General Zoning and Shoreland Floodplain Zoning Ordinance (PDF). Most projects requiring a shoreland permit from Kenosha County will require a corresponding Department of Natural Resources permit and possibly a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit. 

Kenosha County shoreland permits are not valid without the necessary federal or state permits.

Why

• To promote public health, safety and welfare
• To achieve the purposes of s.281.31, Wisconsin Statutes
  • "Maintain safe and healthful conditions
  • Prevent and control water pollution
  • Protect spawning grounds, fish and aquatic life
  • Control building sites, placement of structures and land uses
  • Preserve shore cover and natural beauty"

How

You must submit a complete Stipulated Shoreland Permit Application (PDF) including a property survey / site plan (PDF) and the appropriate fee. This fee is based on the Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development fee schedule.

The Value of Shoreland Zoning Video