FAQs • Elm Grove, WI • CivicEngage

What if I don’t obtain a permit prior to beginning work?: Permits are required by both Village ordinances and state statutes. The permit and accompanying inspections are to assure you that the work is in compliance with the Zoning Code, the appropriate building codes, and the Uniform Dwelling Code. The permit process also affords neighbors the opportunity to comment on a project, but only if a project is at variance with the codes. If a permit is not obtained prior to the commencement of work, the Village can issue a separate violation for each day the work is not in compliance, per the requirements of Chapters 106 and 335 of the Village Code of Ordinances.

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Building Board

1. Do I need to appear at the Building Board meeting in person?: The applicant or applicant’s representative must attend the Building Board meeting to present the plans and respond to questions from the Building Board. If no one is present to speak on behalf of an agenda item, board action may be deferred until the next regularly scheduled meeting.

2. When will the Building Board issue their decision?: In many cases, the board will vote on a proposal at the meeting in which it is presented. The building permit will then be issued approximately 10 business days following Building Board approval. For larger projects, such as an addition or new residence, the Building Board’s review may require a two-step process. The first step would be a conceptual design review of the final plans, including the landscape plan. For larger projects, applicants should plan on two meetings with the Building Board and structure their timetable accordingly.

3. Can I begin construction after the Building Board has approved my project?: No. The Building Board approves only the design / architectural merits of the project. All projects, upon approval from the Building Board, are forwarded to the building inspector to ensure compliance with applicable building code requirements. The Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code provides building inspectors with 10 business days to take action on a building permit application. The building inspector cannot begin review of your project until all required materials (plans, Building Board approval, property survey, and other submittal requirements) have been filed with the Village.

4. Does the Building Board review air conditioners?: No, but the building inspector reviews the placement of new air conditioning compressors. All air conditioners require an HVAC permit and an electrical permit.

5. Do I need an architect for my project?: Single-family home plans do not have to be designed by an architect.

6. What does the Building Board look for in terms of building size and scale?: Building additions shall be in proportion to the primary structure and must complement the existing design and scale. New homes are reviewed for scale, site density, and intensity as well as the relationship to neighboring properties for height, setbacks, site coverage of impervious surfaces, and landscape coverage. Total coverage of a lot (including building footprint and impervious surfaces) may not exceed 30%.

7. When does the Building Board meet?: The board meets the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 5:30 PM in the Park View Room.

8. Do all decks require review?: Yes, if the deck is 6 inches or greater in height.

9. Do all fences require review?: No. Decorative fences (those not greater than 40 feet in length) are reviewed and approved by Village staff. Fencing that exceeds 40 feet in length must receive approval from the Building Board.

10. I am removing an old fence and putting up a new one. Does this require review?: Yes.

11. Can the application deadline be waved?: Generally, the deadline cannot be waived. Upon meeting with the planning and zoning administrator, circumstances can be reviewed, and a discretionary decision may result.

12. Does the Building Board review sheds, doghouses, and other miscellaneous structures?: The Building Board reviews all structures. The Village Code defines a structure as “anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires location on the ground or attachment to something having a location on the ground."

13. What are the setback lines on my property?: This varies by property location. Please check the zoning map and Village Code to avoid confusion. Deed restrictions may also be applicable and may be more restrictive than Village ordinances.

14. How do I find out where my house is situated on the parcel?: Residents can hire a land surveyor to prepare a Certified Survey Map of their lot that will show the location of any structures. In some cases, a survey is already located in the property’s building file. Stop by Village Hall to view the contents of the file for your property.

15. What if I don’t obtain a permit prior to beginning work?: Permits are required by both Village ordinances and state statutes. The permit and accompanying inspections are to assure you that the work is in compliance with the Zoning Code, the appropriate building codes, and the Uniform Dwelling Code. The permit process also affords neighbors the opportunity to comment on a project, but only if a project is at variance with the codes. If a permit is not obtained prior to the commencement of work, the Village can issue a separate violation for each day the work is not in compliance, per the requirements of Chapters 106 and 335 of the Village Code of Ordinances.