Permit & Regulation Questions
Chemical Weed and Algae Treatment
A permit from WDNR is required prior to any chemical treatment or harvesting. Individual landowners may rake a small swimming area without a permit. The WLMD conducts chemical weed and algae treatments to reduce recreational impairments in Wind Lake. The map showing treatment areas is shown in the DNR permit.
Building Construction
A permit will be required from_____________ and Racine County Planning and Development. Depending upon the location of the project, a Eagle Lake MD permit may be required as well.
Piers
A standard, single-family pier does not require a permit. However, the pier must conform to the ELMD guidelines. Refer to the Pier Planner written by ELMD. It is available on the ELMD web site or search on “Wisconsin DNR Pier Planner”.
Boat Lifts
A boat lift does not require a permit, but should conform to the WDNR guidelines.
Filling Land
Filling, grading, and ditching activities near the lakeshore require a permit. Contact ELMD and Racine County Planning and Development.
Plant Removal
Plants may be raked out of a swimming area by hand. Property owners may remove plants from up to 30 ft along shore. Property owners are encourage to allow native plants to remain in place – this helps prevent the area from invasive species. Plants and fragments must be removed from the water. ELMD does issue permits to landowners to put a pea gravel base down. These are a one-time only permit and certain conditions must be met. Contact WDNR for more information.
Boat Houses
New construction of boat houses is rarely approved. Permits would be required from ELM, Racine County Planning and Development, and the Town of Dover.
Burning Leaves
Leaves should not be burned on the lakeshore or in ditches or areas that drain to a lake or stream. The Town of Norway has conditions that must be followed for burning, including hours of burning. Contact the Town of Norway for questions.
Bonfires
Bonfires are not allowed on the ice unless in a container. The Town of Dover requires that bonfire pits should be at least 25 feet from the shoreline. Contact the Town of Dover.
Fences
Fences may or may not be permitted. Fences may be denied if the area is a floodplain. Contact the Town of Dover and Racine County Planning and Development.
Lilly Pads and Cattails
Lilly pads are considered "good weeds." However, small areas may be controlled by hand pulling or chemical treatment. An ELMD permit is needed for any chemical control.
Cutting Down Trees
Trees are an important resource around a lake. They provide shade and habitat. They increase the aesthetics of the lakeshore. Clear cutting the shoreland area is usually prohibited. Contact Racine County Planning and Development for specific information on tree removal.
Shoreline Improvement and/or Repair
A shoreline project will usually require a permit from Racine County Planning and Development and WDNR. For more information, visit the WDNR web site or search on “Wisconsin DNR waterway protection”.