Handouts, Checklists & Frequently Asked Questions

• Accessory Apartment Handout (PDF)
• Accessory Building Handout (PDF)
• Cannabis Zoning Regulations Handout (PDF)
• Comprehensive Plan Amendment Handout (PDF)
• Development Process Handout (PDF)
• Deck Handout (PDF)
• Fence Handout (PDF)
• Home Occupation (PDF)
• Impervious Surface Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
• Pool Handout (PDF)
• Residential Siding Handout (PDF)
• Shorewood Manual of Construction Standards (PDF)
• Solar Installation Handout (PDF)
• Survey Requirements for Permit (PDF)
• Tree Preservation Policy (PDF).
• Water Softener (PDF)

Application Forms

• Building & Zoning Permits: Please use the building permit portal.
• Planning and Subdivision Application (PDF)

Checklists

• Building (Residential) Permit Application Checklist (PDF)
• Zoning Permit Checklist (PDF)
• Demolition Permit Checklist (PDF)
• New Home Checklist Requirements for Final Inspection (PDF)
• Conditional Use Permit Checklist (PDF)
• Home Occupation Checklist (PDF)
• Final Plat Checklist (PDF)
• Preliminary Plat/Minor Subdivision Summary Checklist (PDF)
• PUD Concept Plan Checklist (PDF)
• PUD Development Plan Checklist (PDF)
• PUD Final Plan Checklist (PDF)
• Administrative Adjustment Checklist (PDF)
• Residential Fence Permit Checklist (PDF)
• Variance Application Checklist (PDF)
• Site Plan Checklist (PDF)

What is a setback?

Setbacks are the required distance from a property line to a structure. Setback requirements vary due to the zoning district of your property. Before you begin design work for a fence, pool, shed or other similar structure, visit the information handouts below for information on required setbacks. If you have any questions, please contact Planning & Protective Inspections Department staff. 

What is an easement?

An easement is a legal right to occupy or use another person's land for specific purposes. Nearly every property in Shorewood has some type of easement on it, and typically structures cannot be built within easement boundaries. Common examples include easements for drainage, utilities, and streets. 

Can I get a survey of my property from the City?

The City has some property surveys on file. The surveys were provided by builders or property owners voluntarily through historic building permit applications. If the City has a copy of a survey for your property, it can be emailed to you at no charge. Please contact Planning & Protective Inspections Department staff to request a survey. If the City does not have a survey on file, the property owner will need to hire a licensed land surveyor to create a survey. The City does not recommend any specific surveyor. 

Will the City mark my property lines?

No. The City does not have the ability to mark private property lines. Property owners interested in verifying the location of their property lines will need to hire a licensed land surveyor. The City does not recommend any specific surveyor. 

What is the process for submitting and paying for permits?

Please apply and pay for all building and zoning permits through the IWorQ Permit Portal by clicking this link. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Planning & Protective Inspections Department staff. 

Is my building project required to connect to the municipal water system?

Beginning January 1, 2026, all new residential construction is required to connect to the municipal water system if water service is available to the property. This includes both new home construction and reconstructions. If municipal water service is not available, a private well may be utilized. 

Are new developments required to be served with municipal water?

Yes. All new subdivisions, no matter their type or number of units, are required to be served by the municipal water system. If municipal water service is not available the project is premature and cannot move forward unless water service is extended, typically by the developer at their cost.