Permits

Permits help ensure projects meet City zoning requirements and applicable City and State codes.

Permit Applications

Homeowners and contractors can apply online for building and mechanical permits. Before starting an application, please have all required site plans and building plans ready to upload with your submission. You will receive an email if additional information is needed during review and when your permit is approved. Permits may be paid online by debit card, credit card, or check. Additional fees apply to online payments. You may also mail or drop off a check.

Construction may not begin until the permit has been issued and payment has been received. To create an account and apply online, visit City of Oshkosh Online Permitting.

Community Development will soon launch a new online permit portal, OpenGov. Please check back for updates as the new portal becomes available.

A permit may be required for:

  • New construction, additions, and remodeling projects
  • Detached garages, sheds, gazebos, lean-tos, and other accessory structures
  • Decks, stairs, stoops, porches, and ramps
  • Siding and roofing work
  • Window and door installation or replacement
    • A permit is not required for sash replacement only.
  • Electrical, plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning work
    • A permit is not required for window-mounted air-conditioning units.
  • Swimming pools
  • Demolition of structures, including garages
    • A plumbing permit is required to disconnect water and sewer service before a demolition permit can be issued.
  • Fences, patios, and driveways

Additional requirements:

  • No more than one layer of existing shingles may remain under new shingles.
  • Metal roofs on residential buildings must meet City guidelines and be approved by the City of Oshkosh Planning Division.
  • House numbers must be reinstalled after siding work is complete.

Permits are not required for:

  • Interior painting or wallpapering.
  • Pouring of a concrete sidewalk (maximum 4 feet in width).
  • Flooring.
  • Replacement of a faucet.

Building Guides

The following residential building guides are available to help citizens comply with the various Municipal and State code requirements.

Fee Schedule

Permit fees effective March 1, 2019. Current fee schedule remains in effect through December 31, 2026 (unless amended by the Council).