County Executive Schoemann Highlights Significant Permit Fee Reductions

West Bend, WI – Washington County completed a review of the Land Resources permitting and review fees resulting in significant fee reductions in the 2024-2025 Budget approved by the County Board last month. County Executive Josh Schoemann initiated the review aimed at lowering the overall regulatory cost of home construction and platting, and to mitigate the impact on the price of housing.

The Next Generation Housing (NGH) initiative prompted the review as the county worked with local municipalities involved in NGH developments to change some of the zoning regulations and fees to lower the cost of the homes. The objective is to provide housing opportunities that will allow working individuals and families to remain in Washington County and build equity through home ownership.

“Reducing the cost of development leaves more money in the pockets of homeowners and businesses and furthers the mission of creating an environment for our citizens to enjoy our authentic quality of life,” Schoemann said.

Most Land Resources fees will be reduced by an average of 50%, with some eliminated altogether. The county fees affected are primarily in subdivision and stormwater infrastructure review, permits located in the County – regulated shoreland, floodplain and wetland, non-metallic mining, and septic system installations.

The new fees will be posted on Friday, December 8, and can be found by visiting: https://www.washcowisco.gov/departments/natural_resources