Roofers
Do I need a building permit to replace the roof on my house in Madison?
A common question, answered by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 9, 2026
1 answer
From MadisonWI.com
Yes. On its Repairs & Replacements page, the City of Madison lists roofing and shingling among the repairs that need a building permit, along with doors, siding, and windows and frames. You apply through the City's online Licenses & Permits system. The page doesn't give separate rules for small roof repairs versus a full reroof, so if you're not sure your project counts, call Building Inspection before work starts. There's a fee. If a contractor is doing the job, ask them up front whether they'll get the permit. This covers the City of Madison only; Middleton, Fitchburg and other nearby communities set their own rules. Source: City of Madison Development Services Center, Repairs & Replacements (checked November 2026).
Written by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 9, 2026