Contact:
Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661
MADISON–As of Jan. 1, 2005, under the new Home Safety Act, builders or
prospective new homeowners of one- and two-family dwellings must obtain a
Wisconsin Uniform Building Permit before construction from the municipality,
county or state-contracted inspection agency that is enforcing the Uniform
Dwelling Code (UDC). The UDC is the statewide building code for new,
added-to and remodeled one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1,
1980.
“Gov. Jim Doyle signed the Home Safety Act in 2003 to extend UDC protection
and safeguards across Wisconsin,” said Department of Commerce (Commerce)
Secretary Cory L. Nettles. “Local municipalities and counties can provide
information about permit, plan review and inspection requirements under the
new law.”
Prior to passage of the Home Safety Act, municipalities with fewer than
2,500 residents or less population could decide whether or not to provide
enforcement services for the UDC. With the passage of the Home Safety Act,
there will be statewide enforcement beginning on January 1, 2005 of the UDC
by municipalities, counties, or the Department of Commerce (Commerce)
through its designated inspection agencies.
If a local government is unsure of whom to contact with regard to permit
requirements, Commerce’s Division of Safety and Buildings website
(www.commerce.wi.gov/sb) lists municipalities, their enforcement status and
contact information. The site also contains information on permit
application, contractor credentials and the UDC code text.
Failure to obtain a permit and comply with the UDC may result in fines,
additional construction costs or delays, and problems with financing,
insurance coverage or future sales.
