Permit Requirements
Examples of projects that typically require building permits include the following:
- New Construction: Building a new structure from the ground up. (Zoning Permit required)
- Additions: Expanding an existing structure by adding rooms, floors, or other elements. (Zoning Permit required)
- Alterations: Making significant changes to the layout or structure of an existing building, such as moving walls, adding or removing windows or doors.
- Renovations: Updating or improving existing spaces.
- Structural Repairs and Modifications: Fixing or altering the structural elements of a building, such as the foundation, walls, or roof.
- Demolition: Tearing down an existing structure or part of a structure.
- Reconfiguring rooms by adding or removing walls: This can significantly change the layout and structure and require updates to electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
- Building decks or porches: Adding outdoor spaces.
- Installing swimming pools or hot tubs: These projects may require excavation and electrical work.
- Re-roofing
Commercial Plan Review Requirements
As set forth by Chapter SPS 361all Commercial Buildings containing more than 50,000 cubic feet total volume require:
- Plan review and approval: All plans and related information shall be submitted to the State for review and approval.
- Supervision: The proposed construction of the project shall be supervised by a Wisconsin registered architect or engineer. Certificate of Supervision
If your building is smaller than 50,000 cubic feet, it's not required to have a supervising professional, but it may be beneficial. For further information about submitting plans, including all requirements, please refer to the Submittal Checklist.
The State of Wisconsin adopts the 2015 ICC Suite of codes.
- International Building Code (IBC)
- International Mechanical Code (IMC)
- International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
- International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
- International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
Changes, additions or omissions: Chs. SPS 361-366; Commercial Building Code
City of Elkhorn Requirements
Once obtaining a Conditional Approval from the State of Wisconsin it is required that you submit for permits. Commercial Building Permits. After receiving all applicable Building & Zoning permits from the City of Elkhorn you may commence with the project.