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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Franklin
Franklin states permits are required for new one- and two-family dwellings, additions, remodels affecting living space or structural components, pools, drive approaches, culverts, electrical work, siding, demolition, occupancy changes for commercial and industrial uses, foundation repair, and miscellaneous listed permit types.
- Application
- project-specific plans
- specifications
- and supporting handouts
- commercial work may require plan review packages through E-Plan Exam.
- Building code
- Franklin states it adopts state and local building, plumbing, and electrical codes; city also functions as a fully delegated municipality for commercial review.
- Permit validity
- Extension fees are listed in Franklin fee schedules; verify current duration and extension rules per permit type.
- Owner-builder
- Online permit program is for licensed contractors only; homeowners still may submit other applications directly where allowed.
- Contractor requirements
- Franklin states contractors for one- and two-family new construction, additions, alterations, residing, and foundation repair must have valid Wisconsin certifications; electrical permits must be obtained by a master electrician licensed in Wisconsin.
Application process
Typical processing: Minimum 10 business days for one- and two-family new construction, additions, and alterations; commercial plan review within 15 business days after complete paperwork and fees.
- 01 Determine whether the project fits the City's online permit table or must be submitted another way.
- 02 For eligible licensed-contractor jobs, create a BS&A Online account and obtain a City PIN from Inspection Services.
- 03 Upload application information and required documents, or submit paper applications in person or by mail for other permit types.
- 04 For commercial building, HVAC, and plumbing plan review handled through Franklin's delegated status, submit plan review through E-Plan Exam when required.
- 05 Pay assessed fees.
- 06 Wait for permit issuance; Franklin states some permits are processed while you wait, but many are reviewed in order received.
- 07 Call for required inspections and obtain final approval.
Typical processing time: Minimum 10 business days for one- and two-family new construction, additions, and alterations; commercial plan review within 15 business days after complete paperwork and fees.
Source: Inspection Services ↗
Fee schedule
Franklin building permit fees
Check, City Hall drop box, Treasury counter credit card, and online payment options are offered; service fees apply to some online payments.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- 414-425-0084 (phone)
- Inspection hours
- Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Typical sequence: Permit issuance, discipline inspections during work, then final approval or occupancy where applicable.
Project-specific inspection lists are posted by the City for commercial work.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Franklin permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Franklin, WI? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Franklin, WI? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Franklin, WI? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Franklin, WI? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Franklin, WI? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Inspection Services before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.