Author: mkornmann

Town Comprehensive Plan Decision Tree

If you have…
Town zoning, then...

If you have…
A Town official map, then...

If you have…
A Town subdivision code, then...

*County Zoning Only
No Town Zoning, Town subdivision code, or Town official mapping.

If you do not like the County Plan

No County or Town zoning, no Town official map, no Town subdivision ordinance

Adopt County Plan

Voluntary Planning

Your Town must complete a Comprehensive Plan

Create and Adopt own Town Plan.

Do Nothing

*Vetoing County Zoning Decisions
Under Chapter 59.69, Towns have the authority to “veto” county zoning decisions. To be in legal standing, in 2010, when a Town uses a veto, its decision must be consistent with a adopted comprehensive plan. The town can adopt its own comprehensive plan or adopt the county’s plan.

Created and Designed by Mike Kornmann, Community Development Agent, UW Extension Burnett County
March, 2006

Why Plan?
Wisconsin’s comprehensive planning law requires that certain local units of government create and adopt a comprehensive plans by 2010. All land use decisions must be consistent with this plan. Some towns will not be required to complete a comprehensive plan, however. Still there are many reasons to complete a comprehensive plan. With effective planning communities can: make informed decisions, develop and preserve community character, achieve predictability, produce positive economic development, and adopt a balanced approach. Engaging in effective planning will assist your community in managing change.