Permits are required for the following:

• New construction or an addition to a building.
• Remodeling of a house or other building.
• Construction of a detached garage, lean-to, storage building, gazebo, etc., or any additions or alterations thereto. NOTE: canopy (tent-like) structures are not allowed.
• Construction or reconstruction of a deck, stoop, porch, or ramp.
• Residing of a building.
• Installation/replacement of roofing (shingles, redecking, etc.).   NOTE:  metal roofs are not allowed unless application is applied for and the material is approved by the City's Building Advisory Board.
• Replacement of windows and doors. (Exception: you are allowed to replace two windows or doors without a permit provided they are the same size and type as existing.)
• Installation of new windows. (Exception: a permit is not required for sash replacement only.)
• Installation of electrical circuitry.
• Installation or replacement of plumbing fixtures (where piping needs to be reconstructed during replacement of the fixture).
• Installation or replacement of heating units.
  Installation of air conditioning units. (Exception: a permit is not required for window-mounted units.)
• Installation of a satellite dish.
• Construction or installation of a swimming pool (plumbing permit).
• Construction of a retaining wall (2' or more in height—from ground level).
• Demolition of a building.

Permits are not required for:

• Construction of a fence—there are regulations regarding height and location; contact the Department of Inspection and Zoning at (715) 261-6780. 
• Replacement of a light fixture or an electrical outlet.
• Interior painting or wallpapering.
• Resurfacing an existing driveway.
• Pour a concrete patio or walkway.

When can you obtain a permit? The Building, Electrical, and Plumbing Inspectors are in the office between 8:00–10:00 a.m. to issue permits and answer any questions you may have regarding your proposed project. The remainder of the work day, they conduct on-site inspections. However, if these times are not convenient for you, contact the Department of Inspection and Zoning at (715) 261-6780, and they are generally able to make other arrangements for you to meet with their staff.

What is the cost of a permit? Permit fees vary depending on the work you will be doing, but generally the minimum fee for residential projects is $42.50. You may contact the Department of Inspection and Zoning at (715) 261-6780 to obtain an estimate for your specific project.