FAQ
- What is the City’s overall plan for future economic social and physical development?
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View the City of Green Bay Smart Growth 2022 Comprehensive Plan.
- What specific plans for my neighborhood, commercial corridor, and other sub-areas exist?
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View the following pages to learn about the city's plans:
- What are the plans for future streets, parks, parkways, and residential areas?
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The following maps and plans are used to plan out Green Bay's future:
- When must a division of land be reviewed by the City?
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Any division of land within the incorporated area of the City or its extraterritorial platting jurisdiction which results in a land division as defined by this ordinance shall be surveyed and a Certified Survey Map (CSM) or Plat of such division approved and recorded as required by the State Statutes and this ordinance. View the ordinance (PDF).
- How can I divide this lot?
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Whether an existing lot or parcel can be divided depends on several factors including:
- Compliance with the Official Map (PDF)
- Compliance with the Subdivision and Platting Code (PDF)
- Compliance with the Zoning Code and Zoning Map
- Can city streets be extended
- Who can prepare a Certified Survey Map, Subdivision Plat, or other dividing instruments?
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Only a licensed and professional surveyor can prepare a certified survey map, subdivision plat, or other dividing instruments.
- What are the standards for constructing in a floodplain?
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The standards for constructing in a floodplain can be reviewed in the following:
- What are the requirements for existing structures within the floodplain?
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The requirements for existing structures within the floodplain can be viewed in the following:
- What can be done if a floodplain map may have an error or be to be modified?
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If a map has an error or needs to be modified, contact a FEMA representative.
- What changes will we see on the new Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)?
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Some buildings, for the first time, may be included in the high-risk area, known as the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
- If, based on the new maps, the building is in the SFHA (flood zones beginning with “A”, “AE”, “V,” or “VE”) and is mortgaged through a federally regulated and insured lender, the property owner will be required to carry flood insurance after the new maps go into effect.
- Some buildings will be shown in the new maps as being in a different high-risk zone (e.g., from Zone AE to Zone VE) or may have their Base Flood Elevation (BFE) increase or decrease.
- Premiums are generally higher in areas that are at greater risk of flooding than in those at moderate or minimal risk of flooding. Therefore, changes in the BFE will affect flood insurance rates.
However, some buildings may be removed from the mapped SFHA.
- If the building is currently mapped in an SFHA, but on the new FIRM it is mapped into a moderate-to-low-risk flood area, flood insurance is no longer federally required.
- However, the mortgage holder/lender may still require flood insurance.
- Homeowners and renters, at their discretion, may maintain flood insurance at the lower rates offered for buildings outside the SFHA.
- Is it possible for me to view where my home lies on the new preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) prior to the Flood Risk Open House?
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Yes. Please click on the following link to view where your home lies on the revised preliminary FIRMs: https://msc.fema.gov. The preliminary FIRMs are available on the FEMA Map Service Center website, https://msc.fema.gov. You can also obtain them by contacting the FEMA Map Information eXchange (FMIX) at 1-877-336-2627 (1-877-FEMA MAP) or your local floodplain administrator or building official.
- Who should attend the Flood Risk Open House?
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You should attend a Flood Risk Open House if your property is currently mapped within an SFHA, newly mapped into an SFHA, and/or if you currently have flood insurance. If you are unsure of your flood risk, please refer to the preliminary FIRMs that are available on the FEMA Map Service Center website, https://msc.fema.gov/portal, or call the FEMA Map Information eXchange (FMIX) at 1-877-336-2627 (1-877-FEMA MAP) or your local floodplain administrator or building official.
- What is the zoning of a property?
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View the interactive parcel map to learn about the zoning of a property. You can search or zoom to parcel and use interactive layers in the top-left corner tool bar. You can also search zoning code use tables found in each district section and those with a “P” are permitted and those contain a “C” are required to obtain a Conditional Use Permit.
- What is the process to rezoning a property?
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The process may take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks to complete. The following takes place during the process:
- Verify the potential zoning options by reviewing the Zoning Code and zoning map.
- Use tables are found in each district section and those with a “P” are permitted and those contain a “C” are required to obtain a Conditional Use Permit. Identify current district and the desired districted to be rezoned. If questions arise, please contact staff for assistance at 920-448-3400.
- To apply, complete Request for City Action application (PDF) and include the required fee made payable to the City of Green Bay and any supporting documentation.
- Planning staff will notice property owners within 100 feet, the Alderperson and the affected neighborhood association of the Plan Commission meeting at which the applicant should attend.
- A Public Hearing will be held and the staff will provide a report and recommendation at which time the Plan Commission will make a recommendation to the Common Council.
- The Common Council will review the request as part of the Report to Council and a resolution may be prepared for a first reading of the ordinance.
- A final reading would be conducted at the next available Council meeting.
- Verify the potential zoning options by reviewing the Zoning Code and zoning map.
- What is the process to obtaining a Conditional Use Permit (CUP)?
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The process may take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks to complete and includes the following:
- Verify the potential of a CUP by checking the Zoning Code.
- Use tables found in each district section and those with a “C” are required to obtain a Conditional Use Permit.
- To apply, complete the Request for City Action application (PDF) and include a required fee made payable to the City of Green Bay and any supporting documentation such as maps, operating plans support from surrounding neighbors.
- Planning staff will notice property owners within 100’, the Alderperson and the affected neighborhood association of the Plan Commission meeting at which the applicant should attend.
- A Public Hearing will be held and the staff will provide a report and recommendation at which time the Plan Commission will make a recommendation to the Common Council.
- The Common Council will review the request as part of the Report to Council and a resolution may be prepared for adoption at the same time.
- What is a Planned Unit Development (PUD)?
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A Planned Unit Development (PUD) is a type of building development and also a regulatory process. As a building development, it is a designed grouping of both varied and compatible land uses, such as housing, recreation, commercial centers, and industrial parks, all within one contained development or subdivision. A Planned Unit Development (PUD) as a regulatory process is a means of land regulation which promotes large scale, unified land development by means of mid-range, realistic programs in chase of physically curable, social and economic deficiencies in land and city-scapes. Where appropriate, this development control promotes:
- A mixture of both land uses and dwelling types with at least one of the land uses being regional in nature
- The clustering of residential land uses providing public and common open space
- Increased administrative discretion to a local professional planning staff while setting aside present land use regulations and rigid plat approval processes
- The enhancement of the bargaining process between the developer and government municipalities which in turn strengthens the municipality’s site plan review and control over development for potentially increased profits due to land efficiency, multiple land uses, and increased densities
For details about PUD requirements, see the following: Article XX - Planned Unit Development Standards - Code of Ordinances
- What is a site plan?
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Is a graphical representation of a proposed development that depicts building footprints, property lines, parking, green space fencing, dumpsters, etc. Plans are to be legible and drawn to an engineer’s scale. Site plan review is the process of reviewing documents and drawings required by the zoning ordinance to ensure that a proposed land use or activity meets zoning ordinance standards as well as state and federal statutes.
A site plan includes existing and proposed man-made features, as well as natural site characteristics. A site plan is required when improvements are to be done on a site that include earth filling, paving or building construction.
- How do I submit a site plan?
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To learn about how to submit a site plan, view the site plan information guide (PDF).
- Can I apply for a variance?
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A site plan and/or a building plan is submitted for review to the Community and Economic Development Department. After a plan review, the staff will discuss options to meet the ordinance. If a hardship can be demonstrated, the applicant may apply to the Board of Appeals for a variance or relief from the applicable ordinance. Please call the staff at 920-448-3400 for further details and assistance.
- Do you have guidelines for installing a: Deck, Driveway, Fence, Garage, Shed?
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Guidelines and permit applications can be found in the Permits & Development Services section of the Community & Economic Development Department.
- How do I schedule an inspection?
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All requests for the following types of inspections are to be scheduled using our online Inspection Request Form or by calling 920-448-3300 during business hours. A project number is required when scheduling an inspection.
- Erosion Control pre-con meetings
- Building
- Electrical
- HVAC
- Plumbing
- How do I enter a complaint about a residence?
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Call 920-448-3300 to enter an anonymous complaint.
- When is a plumbing permit required?
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A plumbing permit is required whenever the plumbing drain, waste, vent, or water supply systems are altered. Examples include relocation of a plumbing fixture, installation of a new water heater or dishwasher.
- Who can obtain a plumbing permit?
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Any licensed plumbing contractor or homeowner who owns and occupies a single-family dwelling can obtain a plumbing permit.
- I’m new to Green Bay and want to build a home. What should I do?
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The City cannot recommend a builder but can offer you a link to the Brown County Home Builders Association and the Realtors Association of Northeast Wisconsin.
- Who do I call for defects in my home?
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If you are a renter, call your landlord and inform them of the problem. If the problem persists, you may contact our office or file a report.
- I want to build a shed. What information do I need to know?
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- How much does a permit cost?
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Permit costs vary by construction type. The fee schedule (PDF) should give you a guide as to how much you need for each project/phase of construction.
- Do I need a permit for a shed, fence, or swimming pool?
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- Do I need a permit for roofing or siding?
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Yes, but only on a 3 or more unit building or within a historic residential area. See the fee schedule (PDF) for costs.
- Are temporary round top shelters or metal carports allowed for storage?
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No. Round top shelters or portable structures enclosed by walls of fabric or plastic film, AND metal carports are prohibited in residential districts of the City of Green Bay per Section 13-615, Green Bay Zoning Code.
- Do I need a permit for a fire pit?
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No, but there are rules regarding fire pits. Read the fire pit guidelines (PDF).
- Do I need a building permit for interior remodeling?
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Generally, no. If you are replacing kitchen cabinets, for example, you do not need a permit. However, if you are doing remodeling that requires new plumbing, heating, or electrical work, you will need a permit. Call the Inspection Department at 920-448-3300 for more specific information.
- After taking out a permit, when do I call for inspection?
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Your inspector will inform you when you take out the permit when they should be called to make the inspection(s). Please call 920-448-3300 to schedule.
- My neighbor’s grass is too long and full of weeds. What can I do?
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The Operations Division of Public Works handles these concerns. Fill out an online report or call 920-448-3535 to let us know of your concern.
- My neighbor put out their garbage, and pickup isn’t until tomorrow. What can I do?
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The Operations Division of Public Works handles these concerns. Fill out an online report or call 920-448-3535 to let us know of your concern.
- My garbage wasn’t picked up today. What can I do?
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The Operations Division of Public Works handles these concerns. Fill out an online report or call 920-448-3535 to let us know of your concerns.
- How do I purchase a tax-foreclosed property?
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To purchase a tax-foreclosed property, call the Brown County Treasurer’s Office at 920-448-4074.
- Does the City of Green Bay still require Clearwater Inspections for Sale of Property?
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No. Per new State Statute requirements, SS 706.22, the City of Green Bay can no longer require Clearwater inspections for the sale of property.
A homeowner can voluntarily request a Clearwater inspection, but will need to submit the request for the inspection in writing. The City will issue orders on any Code Violations found as part of the inspection. All typical fees will apply.
- How can I hook up to the mini-storm?
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If it is available, hook up can be done at any time by a licensed contractor. If it is not available, then you will have to request that it be installed in front of your property. You can request this through your Alderperson, or call the Engineering Department at 920-448-3100.
- When is an electrical permit required?
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Any electrical work in conjunction with a building permit requires an electrical permit. Where no building permit has been issued, and more than three outlets (receptacles, lights, switches, etc.) are added, an electrical permit is also required. (This usually excludes minor repairs.)
- Can I do the wiring myself or do I need to hire a contractor?
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The owner of an existing single-family dwelling where they reside may obtain an electrical permit for wiring in that dwelling. New residences, work on electrical services, and all other wiring in the City must be done by an electrical contractor licensed in Green Bay. If you are hiring a licensed electrical contractor to do the wiring, they will submit the electrical permit. (There is no need for you to meet with an electrical inspector in City Hall.)
- How do I obtain an electrical permit?
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If you intend to do the wiring yourself, you must meet with one of the electrical inspectors in our office. A helpful suggestion would be to call 920-448-3300 prior to coming to confirm the inspector will be in the office when you arrive. Please bring a floor plan with you to the Inspection Office showing the locations of all receptacles, lights, switches, etc. that you intend to install.
The inspector will then ask you some basic wiring questions to determine if you are knowledgeable about that wiring, such as:
- What type of wire are you using?
- What is the size of the wire?
- What size overcurrent device will protect the wire?
- How will you ground the device or equipment?
- If ground fault protection required?
If you can answer these basic wiring questions and/or others, the inspector can issue an electrical permit to you.
- What is the fee for an electrical permit?
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It depends upon the work being done, but in most cases it is $50 for a residential project and $70 for a commercial project.