Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, is a picturesque destination for lakes touring enthusiasts, offering stunning natural beauty and a wealth of recreational opportunities. Understanding the zoning regulations in this area is crucial for those planning to explore or engage in various activities around the lakes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of Twin Lakes WI Zoning, providing you with the information you need to navigate the local regulations and make the most of your lakes touring experience.
Understanding Twin Lakes WI Zoning
Twin Lakes, located in Kenosha County, is not under the county’s zoning jurisdiction. However, properties that were previously under the county’s shoreland zoning jurisdiction and have been annexed by a city or village after May 7, 1983, are still required to comply with the county’s shoreland regulations, unless the city or village has adopted an ordinance that is at least as restrictive.
To determine the zoning of your property, you can contact the Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development, visit their office to view a zoning map, or use the county’s interactive mapping application. The department’s Zoning Districts page provides a list of the applicable zoning classifications within their jurisdiction.
Navigating the Zoning Permit Process
In Twin Lakes, a stakeout survey is a document prepared by a licensed professional land surveyor, showing the boundaries, dimensions, and proposed location and size of a building or structure, along with the setback distances from the property lines.
For smaller projects, such as residential decks, fences, or outbuildings, an appointment is usually not required, and zoning permits can be issued on a first-come, first-served basis, provided all zoning issues are addressed in the application.
For larger projects, such as new residential or commercial construction, additions, sign permits, or antenna co-locations, it is recommended to set up an appointment. These permits can generally be issued within five working days, assuming all required application information has been presented and any issues, such as sanitation and site plan review, have been addressed.
It’s important to note that the zoning code allows up to 30 days for the office to formally approve or deny a zoning permit application. It is highly recommended to speak with a Land Use Specialist when submitting your application to ensure that all issues have been addressed.
Identifying Tax Key Numbers
The tax key number for a property can be found on your tax bill or by using the county’s interactive mapping application. If you have the full address house number and street, or the street and ownership name as it appears on the tax bill, you can contact the Office of Planning and Development to obtain the tax key number.
The tax key number prefixes within the jurisdiction of the Kenosha County Planning and Development Office are as follows:
| Tax Key Number Prefix | Jurisdiction |
|---|---|
| 04 | Town of Brighton |
| 05 | Town of Paris |
| 06 | Village of Salem Lakes |
| 07 | Village of Somers |
| 08 | Town of Wheatland |
Regulations on Vehicle Storage and In-Laws Quarters
Kenosha County does regulate the storage of vehicles in conjunction with a permitted business use. For instance, conditional use permits authorizing the placement of a towing business or auto garage may detail where vehicles may be stored outside on a property (site plan review).
In-laws quarters construction is reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development staff.
Restrictions on Mobile Homes and Manufactured Homes
Under the current zoning code, mobile homes or manufactured homes are only allowed within the R-12 Mobile Home/Manufactured Home Park-Subdivision District. If you are unsure about the zoning of a particular property, you can refer to the county’s interactive mapping application or contact the Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development.
Understanding Setbacks
A setback is defined as the distance between a street line and the front building line. This regulation is an essential consideration when planning any construction or development on your property.
By understanding the intricacies of Twin Lakes WI Zoning, lakes touring enthusiasts can navigate the local regulations with confidence, ensuring their activities and projects align with the community’s guidelines. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions, avoid potential conflicts, and fully enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Twin Lakes has to offer.
References:
– Twin Lakes, WI – Building & Zoning Forms
– Kenosha County – Frequently Asked Questions
– Twin Lakes, WI – Building Inspection
– League of Wisconsin Municipalities – Signs – Twin Lakes
– Kenosha County – Current Zoning Ordinance