Wisconsin roofing: permits, codes and approvals

Wisconsin's Uniform Dwelling Code, city re-roof permits, the DSPS Dwelling Contractor credential needed to pull permits, the insurance-claim roofing law, ATCP 110 contract rules and construction lien notices.

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1 · Product approvals

Product approvals

Wisconsin has no state roofing product approval or listing system for homes. Local inspectors rely on the dwelling code's requirements, manufacturer instructions and recognized evaluation reports.

Code evaluation reports (ICC-ES, UL, IAPMO): 48 roofing reports

2 · Permit forms

City re-roof permits

There is no single statewide re-roof permit rule. Each city decides, and the answer ranges from always (Madison) to only for 3+ unit or historic buildings (Green Bay).

MilwaukeeThe city's permit checklist lists shingle tear-off and replacement as 'Maybe', so call 414-286-8210 to find out. A new roof with new rafters always needs a permit, and historic properties need a Certificate of Appropriateness.MadisonA permit is required to re-roof a house or garage; apply online through the city's Accela portal.Green BayRoofing and siding permits are required only on buildings with 3 or more units or in a historic residential area.RacineThe city has a Residential Roof Permit Application. Contractors must list their DC and DCQ numbers, and new roofing can't go over a roof that already has two or more layers.KenoshaNo permit is needed for reshingling only on a one- or two-family home; other roof work uses the city's Roof permit application.

3 · Code rules

Code rules

One- and two-family homes fall under the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code (Wis. Admin. Code SPS 320-325). Roof weather protection is covered in SPS 321.28. Official adoption page ↗

Two-layer limit (Racine)Racine's roof permit form says new roofing may not be installed over an existing roof that already has two or more layers.

4 · Wind, fire and storm programs

Wind, fire and storm programs

No state FORTIFIED grant or roof-discount mandate was found. Wisconsin's main storm-related rule is its insurance-claim roofing law, which bans deductible rebates and lets homeowners cancel after a claim denial.

Storm and insurance-claim roofing law (Wis. Stat. 100.65)Contractors can't promise to pay or rebate a deductible to win roof or exterior work, and can't negotiate a claim for the homeowner. With the homeowner's consent, they may discuss damage and send an estimate. Fines run $500 to $1,000 per violation.No false 'needs replacement' claims (ATCP 110.02)Home improvement sellers may not misrepresent that a home is damaged or needs replacement, pose as a government or utility inspector, or start work to pressure a sale.

5 · License and insurance

License and insurance

Wisconsin has no roofing-specific license. To pull a building permit on a one- or two-family home, a contractor needs a DSPS Dwelling Contractor credential and must hold or employ a Dwelling Contractor Qualifier. Owner-occupants are exempt.

Dwelling Contractor (DC) credentialHeld by the business. It requires a $25,000 surety bond or general liability insurance of at least $250,000 per occurrence, and carries no continuing education requirement.Dwelling Contractor Qualifier (DCQ)Only a DC or DC Restricted holder who is, or employs, a DCQ can get a permit for a one- or two-family dwelling. The DCQ renews every 2 years with 12 hours of continuing education, 4 of them on law, contracts and risk.Don't overstate credentials (ATCP 110.02(4))If you claim to be licensed, bonded or insured, you must give the homeowner a written description of that license, bond or insurance.

6 · Lien and contract forms

Lien and contract rules

Wisconsin roofers must give a lien notice in the contract, a lien-waiver notice before signing, and written contracts when taking deposits. Lien claims are due within 6 months of last work.

Prime contractor lien notice (Wis. Stat. 779.02(2))A prime contractor who uses subs or suppliers must put the statutory notice in the written contract (8-point bold), or serve it within 10 days after first work. This applies to homes with 4 or fewer units.Sub and supplier notice: 60 daysA subcontractor or supplier has lien rights only if it serves the owner written notice within 60 days after first furnishing labor or materials.Lien claim: 30-day notice, then 6 months (Wis. Stat. 779.06)Serve the owner a written notice of intent at least 30 days before filing. File the lien claim within 6 months after your last work, and start suit within 2 years after filing.Lien waiver notice (ATCP 110.025)Before the contract is signed, give the homeowner the separate 'Notice of Consumer's Right to Receive Lien Waivers' and keep proof they got it. If they ask, provide waivers from all subs and suppliers before final payment.Written contract rules (ATCP 110.05)A written, signed contract is required if you take any payment before finishing or solicit away from your business. It must list materials (brand and grade), price, and start and finish dates, and the buyer gets a copy before work or payment.Insurance-claim cancel right (Wis. Stat. 100.65)Before signing, ask in bold type whether the job is tied to an insurance claim and attach a Notice of Cancellation. The homeowner may cancel by the end of the 3rd business day after a written claim denial, and payments must be refunded within 10 days.

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Public records, last checked Oct 23, 2026. Always verify on the official source before you permit.