Building / Zoning Forms & Applications

Available Permits

  1. Zoning Permit

    • When Required:
      • New structures (residential, commercial, industrial)

      • Additions, garages, accessory buildings, decks, fences, and demolition

    • Review Process:

      • Submit completed Zoning Permit Application and required site plan.

      • Zoning Office reviews for compliance with the Zoning Ordinance Municipal Code Chapter 400 and the City Comprehensive Plan.

      • Some applications require Planning Commission and/or Council review depending on scope and zoning district.

      • Final decision issued by the Zoning Administrator or City Council.

  2. Rezoning Permit

    • When Required: If your project requires a change to the zoning district of a parcel, submit a Rezoning Application.

    • Review Process:

      • Submit Rezoning Application and fee.

      • Zoning Office conducts an evaluation and prepares a formal report.

      • Planning Commission reviews the report and makes a recommendation.

      • Common Council holds a public hearing and final vote.

  3. Sign Permit

    • When Required: All new signs, relocated signs, or temporary banners in the City require a permit.

    • Review Process:

      • Submit Sign Permit Application with drawings and site plan.

      • Zoning Administrator reviews for ordinance compliance and safety.

      • Additional review by the Building Inspector if structural work is involved.

      • Permit is issued if approved.

  4. Conditional Use Permit

    • When Required: A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) is needed for land uses that are not allowed by right but may be allowed after public review.

    • Review Process:

      • Submit Conditional Use Permit Application and supporting materials.

      • Zoning Office evaluates and prepares a report.

      • Planning Commission reviews and makes a recommendation.

      • Common Council holds a final vote.

      • Applicants must attend meetings.

  5. Land Split Request

    • When Required: For property owners who wish to split or combine parcels. This process verifies zoning compliance and updates city and county records.

    • Review Process:

      • Submit Land Split Request Form with parcel information.

      • Zoning Office reviews for ordinance compliance.

      • Planning Commission reviews (if required) and makes a recommendation.

      • Common Council takes final action if necessary.

  6. Variance Application

    • When Required: A Variance Application is required when a property owner seeks an exception to specific zoning requirements due to unique property conditions causing hardship.

    •  Review Process:

      • Submit a completed Variance Application outlining the specific zoning relief requested and the hardship claimed.

      • The Zoning Office reviews the application for completeness.

      • A public hearing is scheduled with the Board of Zoning Appeals.

      • The Board reviews the request and makes a final decision.

      • Applicants must attend the public hearing and provide testimony to support the request.


How to Submit an Application

  1. Complete the appropriate application form

  2. Gather required supporting documents

    • Site Plan / Plot Plan showing current structures and set backs as well as desired

    • Maps / Civil Drawings (Commercial) – Landscape plan, Lighting plan, Erosion Control plan, Storm Water Runoff, Off Street parking

  3. Submit your application:

    • In person: City Clerk's Office, 450 S Main Street, Richland Center, WI 53581

    • By email: zoning@richlandcenterwi.gov

    • By mail: City of Richland Center, Zoning Office, 450 S Main Street, Richland Center, WI 53581

  4. Pay fees - vary depending on the type and scope of your project and are regulated under Resolution 2013-30 Zoning Fees 

How to Pay for Fees

  1. Online Payments
    • Please include the License or Permit type in description
    • A processing fee will be applied by allpaid
  2. Deliver or Mail to 450 S Main Street, Richland Center, WI 53581
    • Office Hours are 8:00 AM 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday

Building Services – separate from zoning permits

Building Permit Applications & Inspections can be applied for online