Frequently Asked Questions

General Information 

As a rural property owner, you may be subjected to one or more zoning and land use laws administered by the Marquette County Planning & Zoning Department. This page are designed to briefly explain some rules which are in place to protect you, your property, and to protect public health and the environment of Marquette County. The information is not intended to fully explain all of the programs administered by the Zoning Office. More information can be obtained by contacting our office to discuss individual needs, 608-297-3036.

Where can I find the Ordinances related to Zoning?

Select Ordinances to find the following:

  • Chapter 35 Tourist Rooming House Licensing
  • Chapter 69 Subdivision
  • Chapter 70 Zoning
  • Chapter 71 Building & Mechanical Code
  • Chapter 74 POWTS
  • Chapter 99 Fees

How do I know if I can have farm animals on my property?

  • In districts which permit agricultural uses, the grazing or raising of farm animals shall require a minimum of two (2) acres with a maximum of two (2) animal units for lots less than five (5) acres in size.  Select Animal Unit Calculation for a complete list.
  • The grazing or raising of farm animals is not allowed in the Residential Zoning District.

Can I place a Shipping Container on my property?

  • Zoning regulations in our ordinance prohibits the use of shipping containers as an accessory building in the zoned townships of Marquette County. Please contact the Planning and Zoning Department prior to purchasing one to discuss if there are options for using one for storage on your property.

I want to buy land and have my camper parked there during the year.  What are the rules for campers?

  • Seasonal camping is allowed in all zoning districts except for those parcels in residential zoning. 
  • Minimum requirements included: 
    • one (1) camper per parcel;
    • proper sanitary provisions for camper;
    • arrangements for garage disposal;
    • proper screening and adherence to zoning setbacks to roads and property lines;
    • and removal of camper from property between December 1st through April 15th each year.
  • For more details and options for obtaining a year-round camping permit, please call 608-297-3036.

Do I need a zoning permit for a pre-built shed?

  • Any accessory structure, whether constructed on your property or built off site and delivered to your property, that is 100 square feet or more requires a zoning permit.  Zoning Permit Applications can be printed from the Forms & Applications page or stop in the Zoning office at 77 West Park Street in Montello to complete the form in person.

What is the difference between a Zoning Permit and a Building Permit?

  • Zoning permits determine what a person is building and where the structure will be placed on a property. 
  • The building permit is primarily concerned with how a structure is going to be built.  Building a new home or an addition to an existing home will always require both a building permit and a zoning permit. 
  • In most zoned townships in Marquette County, only a zoning permit will be required for accessory structures, but there are some exceptions to this rule and some townships require additional local permits to be obtained. 
  • Always contact us before starting a construction project to make sure which permits you will need before you begin building. 

I’m ready to build my house.  What is the minimum dwelling size allowed?

  • In zoned townships, the minimum dwelling size is 900 square feet of year-round living area and at least 20 feet wide.  Recreational dwellings are allowed under certain circumstances with a minimum dwelling size of 400 square feet of year-round living area and 20 feet wide.  Call the Planning, Zoning & Land Information office to discuss the details of your building project to determine all of your available options, 608-297-3036.

How do I find out what my Zoning District is?

  • The quickest way to find out is the call our office, 608-297-3036, and we can help you determine which zoning district your property is associated with and what uses are allowed.  The county GIS map also shows the zoning designation for properties. https://hub-marqco.hub.arcgis.com/

How many driveways can I have on my property?

For Commercial and Industrial Accesses:

  • The maximum number of accesses is 2 with a maximum width of 35 feet.

For Residential Accesses:

  • The maximum number of accesses is 1 with a maximum width of 35 feet and minimum width of 24 feet.

For Agricultural Accesses:

  • The maximum number of accesses is 1 with a maximum width of 35 feet and minimum width of 24 feet.

For Field Accesses:

  • No maximum number of accesses per tax parcel and the maximum and minimum width shall be 35 feet and 24 feet respectively, if required.