DNR to Amend Shoreland Zoning Rules

At its March meeting, the Natural Resources Board approved the commencement of rulemaking to amend the state’s shoreland zoning rules. According to the DNR, counties have asked for changes to make the rules, last updated in 2009, easier to implement and enforce.

Wisconsin's minimum shoreland zoning standards were originally codified as NR 115 in the 1960’s. Rule revisions in 2009 addressed the changes in land use and development patterns from small, older, family cottages to year-round homes and multi-unit complexes with sizes proportionate to the high value of the shoreline property. Since the 1960's, most counties have elected to create shoreland zoning ordinances that go beyond the minimum standards, but were looking for up-to-date statewide minimums to make these protective measures more consistent.

The DNR says some additional changes are needed because the 2009 provisions relating to impervious surface limits, nonconforming structure provisions, vegetation standards and administrative procedures are difficult for counties to implement and enforce.

The DNR has identified the following groups as those likely to be impacted by the proposed rule changes:

• property owners;
• zoning administrators and county officials;
• realtors;
• contractors, and others who provide land alteration services; and
• members of the public who recreate on or near navigable waters.
   

This post was authored by GLLF staff attorney Emily Kelchen.