How much does a building permit cost in Berlin, WI?

The minimum permit fee is $65. Fees are calculated as: Square foot or valuation-based, depending on project type.. Plan check fee: $60 for 1-story, $85 for 2-story, $25 for lean-to additions/decks/garages..

How do I apply for a building permit in Berlin, WI?

1. Select the relevant permit form. 2. Submit the application at least one week before starting work. 3. Provide supplemental items required by the permit type. 4. Receive the permit placard before starting work.

How do I schedule a building inspection in Berlin, WI?

Inspections can be scheduled via: 920-210-6351.

City Building Permits

Berlin, WI - 2026 Building Permit Guide

How to apply for a building permit in Berlin, Wisconsin. Permit authority, application steps, fees, and inspection requirements.

Wisconsin Green Lake County Updated March 2026

Permit Authority

City of Berlin municipal limits

Department: Planning and Development Department, Building Inspection and Zoning Administration
Address: 108 N. Capron St. (second floor), P.O. Box 272, Berlin, WI 54923
Phone: 920-361-5156
Email: tludolph@cityofberlin.wi.gov
Website: https://cityofberlin.net/zoning-building-inspection/

Application Process

Select the relevant permit form.
Submit the application at least one week before starting work.
Provide supplemental items required by the permit type.
Receive the permit placard before starting work.

Typical processing time: Approximately one week once a completed application and supplemental items are submitted.

Source: Planning and Development Department, Building Inspection and Zoning Administration

General Requirements

Permits are required before any new construction, repairs, additions, changes, or demolitions, including heating, electrical, plumbing, garages, porches, fences, decks, pools, signs, use changes, structural changes, and window changes affecting exit or ventilation.

Required Documents

Certified survey for a new building
Plot plan for smaller projects
Estimate of project cost
Contractor list with license numbers where applicable

Building code: All residential projects follow the Wisconsin UDC and city municipal code.
Owner-builder: Owner-occupants of single-family homes can draft their own plans unless code says otherwise.
Contractor requirements: Property owner is responsible for the permit; contractors may apply on the owner's behalf; some work may be done by owner-occupants subject to inspection.

Fees

Minimum permit fee: $65
Plan check fee: $60 for 1-story, $85 for 2-story, $25 for lean-to additions/decks/garages.
Permit fee formula: Square foot or valuation-based, depending on project type.
Reinspection fee: Early start fee is $100; fees are nonrefundable.

Fees change. Verify current amounts at the official fee schedule.

Work That Does NOT Require a Permit

Contact the Planning and Development Department, Building Inspection and Zoning Administration to confirm whether your project requires a permit before starting work.

Inspections

How to Schedule

920-210-6351 (phone)

Inspection hours: Monday 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. during summer months, Wednesday 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. year-round, or by appointment.
Time windows: Monday 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. during summer months, Wednesday 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. year-round, or by appointment.

Typical inspection sequence: Berlin lists required inspections for footings, foundation, underfloor plumbing, basement floor, rough construction/trades, electrical services, insulation, and final inspection.

Additional Resources

Building code: All residential projects follow the Wisconsin UDC and city municipal code.
Zoning information: View zoning info
Municipal code
Interactive zoning map
License lookup guide: Wisconsin Contractor License Requirements
Contract template: Wisconsin Homeowner-Contractor Agreement
Wisconsin hub: Wisconsin Contractor License & Permit Hub

Information on this page was last verified: March 2026. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with the Planning and Development Department, Building Inspection and Zoning Administration before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Berlin Building Permit FAQ

Do I need a building permit in Berlin, WI?: Permits are required before any new construction, repairs, additions, changes, or demolitions, including heating, electrical, plumbing, garages, porches, fences, decks, pools, signs, use changes, structural changes, and window changes affecting exit or ventilation.
How much does a building permit cost in Berlin, WI?: The minimum permit fee is $65. Fees are calculated as: Square foot or valuation-based, depending on project type.. Plan check fee: $60 for 1-story, $85 for 2-story, $25 for lean-to additions/decks/garages..
How do I apply for a building permit in Berlin, WI?: 1. Select the relevant permit form. 2. Submit the application at least one week before starting work. 3. Provide supplemental items required by the permit type. 4. Receive the permit placard before starting work.
How long does it take to get a building permit in Berlin, WI?: Typical processing time is Approximately one week once a completed application and supplemental items are submitted..
How do I schedule a building inspection in Berlin, WI?: Inspections can be scheduled via: 920-210-6351.

Need help with your project?

Navigating permits in Berlin can be complicated.

Jaspector connects you with local experts who can review your scope, verify your contractor, and help you understand what permits your project actually needs.

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Important: This page is an educational resource provided by jaspector.com. It is not legal advice, and it does not substitute for official guidance from the permit authority listed above. Permit requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the issuing department before beginning any construction project. Use of this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Jaspector assumes no liability for any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.