How long does it take to obtain a zoning permit?

Zoning permits for minor structures, such as residential decks and fences or outbuildings, can generally be issued right away on a first come, first serve basis, assuming all zoning issues are addressed in the application. You can expect the process to take about a half hour or less. Please ensure that if you send an agent or contractor to pull the permit for you that he/she is informed of the proposed project well enough to answer any questions the Land Use Specialist may have during the permitting process. If you wish to speak with a Land Use Specialist, please call (262) 857-1895.

You should expect to wait about five working days from the date of application for larger projects, such as new residential/commercial construction, residential/commercial additions, sign permits, antenna co-locations, etc. It is highly recommended that you speak face to face with a Land Use Specialist when dropping off your application packet to ensure that all issues have been addressed.

Be aware that the zoning code allows up to thirty days for the office to formally approve or deny a zoning permit application. Below is an excerpt from the zoning ordinance regarding time limits for review.

12.05-3 Time Limits
All permits, except conditional use permits and stipulated shoreland permits, shall be granted or denied in writing, within 30 days after application, by the Office of Planning and Zoning Administration. All stipulated shoreland permits shall be granted or denied within 60 days after application, unless the time is extended by mutual agreement. The applicant shall post any permit granted in a conspicuous place at the site. All zoning permits shall expire within 18 months. Any permit issued in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance shall be null and void.

Show All Answers

1. What areas are in the County’s zoning jurisdiction?
2. How do I find out the zoning of my property?
3. How do I find out what zoning district my property is in?
4. What is a stakeout survey?
5. Why do I need a survey?
6. Why is a survey an important document?
7. Is there a survey of the property and how do I get a copy?
8. What is a foundation survey?
9. What is a foundation survey requirement?
10. What is a waiver of liability?
11. What is a waiver of liability requirement?
12. What is a release of waiver of liability document?
13. What is a variance?
14. How many animals/horses or livestock can I have on my property?
15. Can the Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development answer questions about my property if it lies within the City of Kenosha or a Village within Kenosha County?
16. What is a setback?
17. What are the setbacks on my property?
18. What is a setback distance requirement measured from?
19. What is a 100-year floodplain?
20. What is an ordinary high water mark (OHWM) elevation?
21. What is a wetland?
22. When is a zoning permit required?
23. What if I am only replacing what already exists?
24. Do I need a permit for a patio?
25. Do I need a zoning permit for a fence?
26. Do I need a zoning permit for a deck?
27. Do I need a zoning permit for a swimming pool, spa, jacuzzi or hot tub?
28. Is a fence required around my swimming pool?
29. Do I need a zoning permit for a sign?
30. Do I need a permit to cut/remove trees on my property?
31. What is the process for applying for a zoning permit?
32. How long does it take to obtain a zoning permit?
33. What is the cost of a zoning permit?
34. How long are zoning permits valid?
35. What happens if construction is not complete and the zoning permit is about to expire?
36. Will the building inspector check my setbacks?
37. Do I need an appointment to apply for a zoning permit?
38. Where can I obtain my tax key number?
39. Where can I find a legal description of my property?
40. Can I store unlicensed and/or inoperable vehicles on my property?
41. Do I need a permit to operate a home occupation from my residential property?
42. Is more than one dwelling unit allowed on a property?
43. Can I have an "in-law" unit on my property?
44. Can I place a mobile home or manufactured home on my property?
45. Is my property in the 100-year floodplain?
46. Does the County issue permits for piers and other structures placed on the bed of a body of water?
47. Can I have a boathouse on my property?
48. How many accessory buildings can I have on my property?
49. What size accessory structure can I have on my property?
50. I have a vacant piece of land. Can I place or construct an accessory building/structure without a residence on the site?
51. What if I have a substandard lot or structure?
52. What is required for a new home construction permit?
53. Do I need a zoning permit for new windows, new doors, new shingles, etc....?
54. What do I need to start a new business?
55. What public service utilities such as electric, gas, broadband and telephone are available at a property?