FAQ

“Why do I need a permit?”

The permit and inspection process give you, your neighbors, and the City assurance that specific standards are met when expanding, altering, or repairing your property by complying with State Codes, Local Codes and Zoning Requirements. These standards are based on well-established health, safety, and environmental considerations intended to protect the integrity of the building, the safety of its inhabitants, and the welfare of the public. Projects not completed according to code can affect your homes insurability and potential sale.

“When do I need a permit?”

Before starting any new construction, repairs, additions, changes, or demolitions, you need to get a permit. This includes things like putting in new heating systems, electrical wiring, plumbing fixtures, garages, porches, fences, decks, pools, and signs. If you want to change how a building is used, move walls, doors, columns, or beams, you also need a permit. Any modifications to exits or ways to provide natural light and ventilation, like windows, require a permit too.
However, some small projects might not need a permit if you keep a record and get the building inspector’s approval. If you’re unsure about whether you need a permit, you can ask the building inspector at City Hall or call them at 920-210-6351.

“Who is responsible for obtaining a permit?”

The property owner must make sure to get a permit before any work begins. Contractors have the option to apply for and secure permits for the property owner as well. It’s important to note that construction or demolition cannot commence until the building permit is obtained and the placard is displayed in a front window or door where it can be seen from the street.

“Do I need to hire a professional Architect, Engineer or Contractor to do the work?”

Owner-occupants of single-family homes can draft their own plans unless the building code says otherwise. All residential projects need to follow the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) and the City of Berlin Municipal Code.

Depending on what kind of work you’re doing, you might not need to hire a contractor. As an owner-occupant, you can handle carpentry, electrical, plumbing, or heating tasks yourself. However, any work you do will be inspected to ensure it meets the necessary codes. If the inspector thinks the project is too big for you to manage alone, they might suggest that you get professional help.

” Are there avenues to pursue if I have concerns regarding my contractor?”
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection can be reached toll free at 1-800-422-7128.

“What do I do if I cannot comply with City of Berlin zoning requirements?”

You can apply for a zoning variance at City Hall. If you believe that the actual purpose of the code can’t be fulfilled due to a unique situation, you can file an appeal. However, any appeals related to the Zoning Ordinance need to include supporting evidence, and it’s up to the applicants to prove their case.

“What is an Unnecessary Hardship?”
Unnecessary hardship refers to a situation where the property cannot be used in a reasonable way unless a variance is granted. This hardship must be specific to the property itself, not the owner, and it may not be something the owner caused. Additionally, it shouldn’t be based on financial issues. When it comes to setbacks, unnecessary hardship means that a permitted use of the property cannot possibly happen without the variance.

“What is an Unique Property Limitation?”
An unique property limitation is  due to unique physical limitations of the property, such as steep slopes or wetlands that prevent compliance with the ordinance. The personal situation of the applicant, like having a growing family or needing a bigger garage, doesn’t influence the decision on variances. If many properties face similar limitations that make it tough to comply with the rules, it would be better to change the ordinance instead.

“What is meant by No Harm to Public Interests.”
The applicant needs to show that the purpose of the ordinance and its related laws align with the variance request. The Board will look closely at the long-term effects, not just for the individual applicant, since these decisions can set a precedent that adversely affects the public interest as a whole.

“What is the cost to apply for a variance?”
When you want to apply for a variance in the City of Berlin, you need to pay a fee of $500.00 along with your application and any supporting documents using the forms given. This is to make sure your application is complete. If you have any questions, you can contact the Zoning Administrator at (920) 361-5156.

“What are the requirements for a fence in the City of Berlin?”

A building permit is required for all fences. The side of the fence that is finished must always face the neighbor’s property. Fences need to be kept in good repair. For fences on the side or back lot lines, they can be up to 6 feet tall (make sure to check the Zoning Ordinance for your specific district). In the front yard, fences may not be taller than 4 feet, or 30 inches if they are within 10 feet of a driveway or any street corner. If you have a corner lot, it counts as having two front yards for the sake of fence construction. No fence or similar structure can block drivers’ views or create dangerous situations. Fences can be built right up to the property line, but not beyond it. To find out the precise location of your property line, it’s a good idea to hire a land surveyor.

“What information is required to obtain a permit for a new building?”
A certified survey of your property is necessary to indicate where the new building will be placed. For smaller projects like garages, sheds, pools, or fences, a plot plan is sufficient and should include the following details:

* The dimensions and layout of your lot, with all boundary lines clearly marked and measured.

* The positions of all buildings and structures on your property, labeled to indicate their use and whether they are “existing” or “proposed.”

* The names and locations of all nearby streets and alleys.

* The placement of all current and planned driveways. If your work affects the City right of way, you may need to   reach out to the Public Works Director for permits and guidelines.

* The distance from all buildings and structures to the property lines of adjacent streets.

* Depending on the project, you might need a full set of plans. It’s best to contact an inspector to find out what specific plans are necessary for your project. Generally, small additions, garages, and sheds will only need a plot plan.

* An estimate of the project’s costs, including labor, even if you plan to do the work yourself.

* A list of all contractors involved, including their license numbers when applicable.

Every project has its own specific information needs, so it’s a good idea to consult with the building inspector. They can help you figure out the exact requirements and details you’ll need to get the permits for your project.

The Building Inspector can be reached at 920-210-6351. If you need information or permits, the office is open on Mondays from 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. during the summer months, and on Wednesdays from 8:30 to 10:30 A.M year-round. You can also schedule an appointment if those times don’t work for you.

The information presented below does not reflect the opinions of the City of Berlin; however, it may serve as helpful insights to explain the necessity of obtaining permits.

What Happens when you don’t get a permit?

What About Building Permits for my project?

City of Berlin Permit Log

A Land Use Permit is Required for any alterations within the Floodway or Flood-fringe.

Berlin_Land Use Permit_Application

H+H Study Checklist- DNR

River Frontage Setback

FIRM Maps:

55047CV000A

55137CV000A

550166V000

• * 100 sq ft or less 3 ft, 101 to 500 sq ft 6 ft, 500+ setback for principal structure
• ** 1400 sq ft less than 1 acre, increased 100 sq ft for each additional acre with a maximum of 1800 sq ft.
• *** where 40 percent or more of the frontage of one side of the block is less than 20 feet, buildings may be erected or structurally altered to conform to the average front yard depth of that block.

This matrix is just for quick reference.  Review the Code of Ordinances for more information.