Sauk County Septic (POWTS) Ordinance and Permits

Sauk County writes its own septic rules into county code as Chapter 25, the Private Sewage System Ordinance, administered by Conservation, Planning and Zoning in Baraboo.

The ordinance

Chapter 25 sets out permitting, installation standards, and maintenance requirements for every private sewage system in the county, layered on top of the statewide SPS 383 code. It is a real, citable county ordinance, not just a program brochure.

Permits and the maintenance agreement

For a new residence with a private septic system, the county requires a Septic Maintenance Agreement form, a POWTS sanitary application signed by the plumber or installer, and an original plus one copy each of the soil test and the state-approved septic plans. Land use and sanitary permits are handled through the county’s OpenGov online portal, not paper applications dropped off in person.

Fees

The county publishes a Planning and Zoning fee schedule, but it states plainly that the list “may not be all inclusive” and directs specific questions to department staff. We are not going to guess at a dollar figure the county itself hedges on. Call Land Resources and Environment for the current sanitary permit fee.

County contact

Frequently asked questions

Does Sauk County follow its own rules or just the state code

Both. Chapter 25 of the county code layers Sauk-specific permitting and maintenance requirements on top of the statewide SPS 383 code.

How do I apply for a sanitary permit

Through the county's OpenGov online portal, along with a Septic Maintenance Agreement, a signed POWTS application, a soil test, and state-approved plans for a new residence.

What does the sanitary permit actually cost

The county's own fee schedule page says it may not be complete. Call Land Resources and Environment for the number that applies to your project.

For the state rule behind this, see Wisconsin septic maintenance rules. Nearby: Dane County.