ADU Permit Inspection Checklist in Madison, Wisconsin
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Madison, Wisconsin — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $2,700 – $5,280
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 6 inspections required
Inspection Checklist (6 items)
Inspection requirements may vary by project. Always confirm specific inspection criteria with your inspector or local AHJ.
Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for Madison, Wisconsin — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: ADU Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $900–$3,200 estimated total
- Step-by-step City of Madison portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (6 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
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Required Documents
Madison requires the following documents for this permit application.
ADU Permit Application
Completed City of Madison ADU permit application form with owner signature
Detailed Site Plan
Site plan at 1/4 inch scale or larger showing property lines, existing/proposed structures, parking, utilities, setbacks, and lot coverage
Architectural Plans
Complete architectural plans including floor plans, sections, and details for ADU
Exterior Elevations
All exterior building elevations showing materials, colors, windows, doors, and height dimensions
Utility Connection Plans
Water, sewer, electrical, and gas utility connection plans and details
Title Abstract or Deed
Current property title abstract or deed showing ownership and encumbrances
Owner Occupancy Affidavit
Affidavit affirming principal owner will occupy primary dwelling unit
Architectural Specifications
Building material specifications, structural details, and construction specifications
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through City of Madison.
- 1
Zoning Compliance Check
Planning staff verifies property zoning allows ADU and reviews preliminary compliance with code requirements
You'll need: Detailed Site Plan
- 2
File ADU Application
Submit complete ADU application with all required documents and fees to Planning Division
You'll need: ADU Permit Application, Detailed Site Plan, Architectural Plans, Exterior Elevations, Title Abstract or Deed, Owner Occupancy Affidavit
- 3
Planning Division Review
Comprehensive planning review for code compliance, conditional use permit if required, and zoning variance assessment
You'll need: Utility Connection Plans, Architectural Specifications
- 4
Building Permit Issuance
After planning approval, building permit is issued with all conditions and requirements
- 5
Construction with Required Inspections
Builder completes construction with mandatory inspections at zoning, foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and final stages
- 6
Final Inspection & Certificate of Occupancy
Final comprehensive inspection verifies all code compliance; Certificate of Occupancy issued upon approval
Fees and Timeline
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee | $1,800 – $3,200 | Verified |
| Plan Review Fee | $900 – $2,080 | Verified |
Inspections Required
Zoning inspection - zoning officer verifies site plan and se
Zoning inspection - zoning officer verifies site plan and setback/lot coverage compliance
Foundation inspection - foundation and footings inspected fo
Foundation inspection - foundation and footings inspected for code compliance
Framing inspection - structural framing and floor systems ve
Framing inspection - structural framing and floor systems verified per Wisconsin code
Electrical inspection - electrical service, panels, wiring,
Electrical inspection - electrical service, panels, wiring, and separate service inspected
Plumbing inspection - water supply and waste systems inspect
Plumbing inspection - water supply and waste systems inspected; separate meters verified
Final inspection - comprehensive final walkthrough; all syst
Final inspection - comprehensive final walkthrough; all systems and finishes verified
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in Madison?
- Yes. Madison requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in Madison?
- Processing times in Madison vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 6 steps. Contact Madison Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in Madison?
- Madison requires 8 documents including ADU Permit Application, Detailed Site Plan, Architectural Plans, Exterior Elevations, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in Madison?
- Building without a permit in Madison can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Madison?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Madison's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in Madison?
- ADU permit fees in Madison typically range from $2,700 to $5,280, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Madison.
Related Permits
Other permits in Madison
ADU permits in nearby cities
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