Building Permit Instructions for Residents and Contractors
Whether you’re planning a small home improvement project or a larger construction endeavor, obtaining a building permit ensures that your work meets local safety standards and complies with village ordinances. Most construction projects require a building permit. Below are the steps to take out a building permit and schedule inspections.
Obtaining a building permit is essential for several reasons:
Apply for a Building Permit
Prepare Your Project Details
- Before submitting a permit request, make sure you have all the relevant information about your project. This includes detailed plans, the scope of work, and any necessary documentation (such as structural or electrical plans, if applicable).
- Contractor credentials and license numbers: Most permitted work in Wisconsin requires contractors to have trade-specific licenses through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. The license numbers should be included on the permit for all the necessary trades professionals working on the project.
Submit Permit Application
Approval Process
- Review Process: After submission, the building department will review your application and plans. This involves checking for compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and safety regulations. You will be notified when your permit is approved and ready for issuance, as well as given instructions on how to schedule an inspection. We aim to review permits as quickly as possible, however, please budget for 7-14 days in your building project for reviewing and processing a permit application.
- Permit Issuance: If everything meets the necessary requirements, the building department will issue your permit. They may also provide additional instructions or conditions that must be met during construction.
Obtaining an Inspection
Once your work begins, it’s critical to schedule inspections at appropriate stages to ensure everything is progressing correctly:
- Inspection Process: Inspections confirm that the work is up to code and meets safety standards. The Village contracts with McMahon Associates for our inspection services. McMahon Associates can be contacted by email (inspections@mcmgrp.com) or by phone 920-751-4200 x 260. We aim to schedule inspections as quickly as possible, however, please budget for 3-7 days in your building project for scheduling an inspection.
- Types of Inspections: Depending on the scope of your project, different types of inspections may be required (e.g., foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical).
- Final Inspection: A final inspection will be required to ensure that your project meets all regulations and is safe for use.
Closing the Permit and Certificate of Occupancy
- After completing your project and passing the final inspection, make sure to close your permit with the Village by emailing inspections@villageofallouezwi.gov or by calling 920-448-2800.
- Certificate of Occupancy: For certain types of projects (e.g., commercial buildings, new homes), you may also need a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) before you can use or occupy the building. This can only be provided when final inspections are passed and the permit is closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Additional Information for Common Projects
General Building & Zoning Informational Documents
- Informational Document – R1 Residence District
- Informational Document – R2 Residence District Twinhouse
- Informational Document – R2 Residence District Two-Unit House
- Informational Document – Mixed-Use District
- Informational Document – Fences
- Informational Document – Driveway Specifications
- Informational Document – Parking Requirements
- Informational Document – Swimming Pools
- Informational Document – Decks
- Informational Document – Sheds-accessory
Assistance Programs
Find out if you qualify for home improvement loans and programs offered by Brown County through the CDBG Housing Funds.
Planning a project? Contact Diggers Hotline by calling 811 or submit an online request at least 3 working days before you dig.
It’s free, easy, and required by law!
Community Development Forms
Permit required prior to renting a mobile storage unit or construction dumpster.
A Certificate of Appropriateness is needed when there are plans for reconstructing, altering, or demolishing the exterior of a property locally designated by the Village as historic.
Community Development Contacts

Trevor Fuller, AICP
Director of Planning and Community Development
920-448-2800 x 134


