Retaining Wall Permit Requirements in Bristol, WI
Bristol Kenosha County (not Bristol Dane County). On WI DSPS delegated-municipality list, entry 415. Village Administrator Randy Kerkman is the dept contact per DSPS. Kenosha County zoning excludes Bristol (village governs its own). Not shared with neighboring Salem Lakes village. Online portal: InspectWiz. WI enforces its own UDC for 1-2 family homes.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified May 28, 2026 · How we research →
When you don’t need a Retaining Wall permit
Retaining walls 4 feet or less in height (measured from grade to top of wall) are generally exempt from a UDC building permit per SPS 320.07 (UDC follows IRC R105.2 minor-work exemptions). Walls over 4 feet, or any wall that supports a surcharge load (driveway, structure), require a UDC building permit from the Village of Bristol via InspectWiz with engineered plans.
Retaining Wall Permit Costs: Bristol vs. Nearby
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Bristol | N/A |
| Milwaukee | $150 – $600 |
| Madison | $150 – $600 |
| Green Bay | $150 – $600 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all Bristol permit costs →
Zoning Considerations
Retaining walls near property lines may require zoning setback review. Walls that significantly change the grade of a property may need additional zoning approval.
Estimated Project Timeline
Here's a typical timeline for a retaining wall project:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Contact the building department for current Retaining Wall permit fee information. Fees typically vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Retaining Wall projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Contact the building department for current processing times. Timelines vary based on project complexity and whether plan review is required.
Learn More About Retaining Wall Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Retaining Wall Guide →