Planning/Inspection/Zoning FAQS

Building Permit Application

Can the owner of a dwelling do their own electrical work?  The owner of the property can do their own electrical work provided they live in the residence. If the owner does not live in the residence, then a licensed electrician is required to do the electrical work.

Is a building permit required to do roofing?  Yes, a permit is required to do roofing. New roofing can be applied over one layer only. All other layers must be completely removed.

Is a permit needed to install a fence?  Yes, a permit is needed to install a fence. There is a $60.00 fee for a fence permit. See Chapter 14.18 for Code requirements.

What are the requirements for building a detached garage?  A drawing of the proposed garage showing setbacks from the property lines and the existing house is required.  For Code requirements, see Chapter 14.11.

How do I find my property lines?  Locating property iron stakes is the responsibility of the property owner, however, the City does have maps that may be helpful in locating property lines.

Is a permit required to install a yard shed on my property?  Yes, sheds, garages, barns or any detached structure requires a permit and must meet required setbacks within the Zoning Code. Contact the Building Inspection Department for all your building, plumbing, electrical, HVAC and zoning questions at 355-2730.

How do I apply for a conditional use permit?  A conditional use application must be filled out and turned into the City along with a $250.00 fee. The request then heard by the City Plan Commission which meets the third Tuesday of each month. The application and fee must be received by the end of the month preceding the the City of Baraboo Plan Commission meeting.  In addition, the City also requires 16 copies of all documents being submitted for review no later than 4:30 p.m. the Tuesday preceding the Plan Commission meeting.

When do I need a conditional use permit?  Certain uses and or occupancies may require a conditional use permit within any and all zoning classifications.  Certain uses in situations which are of such a special nature, or are so dependent upon actual contemporary circumstances, as to make impractical, the predetermination of permissibility or the detailing of specific standards, regulations, or conditions which would permit such determination in each individual situations, may be permitted as conditional uses. See 17.37 Conditional Use Review and Approval for more information.

What can I do if a would like to build an addition, a detached garage, etc., however, I have a small lot and I cannot meet the setback requirements?  You can request a variance from the setbacks from the Zoning Board of Appeals after filling out the Variance Application and paying a $250 non-refundable fee.

What is the Zoning Board of Appeals?  Except as otherwise provided in the City Code or in the State Statutes, appeals to the Board of Zoning Appeals may be made by any person aggrieved by the enforcement of the Zoning Code, The Building, Plumbing, Electrical or Fire Codes, or by any officer, department or  Board of the City affected by any decision under these codes. An appeal must be filed within thirty (30) days of receipt by the appealing party of the determination from which the appeal is taken. City of Baraboo Board of Appeals Rules