On this page 6
When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Shorewood
Shorewood's permit guide and inspection page cover building, trade, occupancy, and other permits. Fences and new windows that change size require permits; business occupancies require occupancy review and often additional building, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC permits.
- Exempt Fences or new windows that do not change in size do not require design approval, but still require a building permit.
- Exempt Use the Guide to Village Permits because exemptions and approvals are project-specific.
- Project-specific forms
- plans
- and supporting materials
- commercial occupancies may require architect or state-reviewed plans depending on building volume.
- Building code
- Shorewood states it adopts the State Uniform Dwelling Code and the Uniform Building Code for homes constructed before June 1, 1980.
- Permit validity
- Commercial certificates of occupancy must be renewed every 5 years.
- Owner-builder
- Shorewood FAQ identifies owner responsibility for obtaining permits; confirm self-performed trade work limits with staff.
- Contractor requirements
- Wisconsin trade credentialing applies; commercial plan review rules follow the state commerce and building code framework.
Application process
Typical processing: Design Review Board applications must be received at least 10 days before the next meeting; other processing times are not clearly consolidated.
- 01 Review Shorewood's Guide to Village Permits and project-specific information sheets.
- 02 Email fillable PDF applications or submit them through the Planning & Development Department.
- 03 Include plans and any design review materials where exterior work, additions, facade changes, or commercial signs are involved.
- 04 Staff reviews for completeness and routes items to the needed board, inspector, or occupancy review.
- 05 Pay fees and await permit issuance.
- 06 Complete required inspections, including commercial occupancy inspection where applicable.
Typical processing time: Design Review Board applications must be received at least 10 days before the next meeting; other processing times are not clearly consolidated.
Source: Planning & Development Department / Building Inspections & Code Enforcement ↗
Fee schedule
Shorewood building permit fees
Shorewood is moving toward a paperless application process and accepts emailed forms; ask department whether payment will be handled on the web for the specific application.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- Coordinate through Planning & Development / Building Inspector. (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Building Inspector office hours Monday through Thursday, 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Typical sequence: Permit issuance, trade or building inspections, commercial occupancy inspection where applicable, final approval.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Shorewood permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Shorewood, WI? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Shorewood, WI? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Shorewood, WI? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Shorewood, WI? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Shorewood, WI? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Shorewood, WI? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Planning & Development Department / Building Inspections & Code Enforcement before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.