SHORELAND ZONING REQUIREMENTS IN LANGLADE COUNTY


Land use is regulated in all shoreland areas in Langlade County and throughout the towns with comprehensive zoning. Permitted uses vary among zoning districts.

Shoreland development regulations apply to the following lands:
  • Lands within 1000 feet of the ordinary high-water mark (OHWM) of navigable lakes, ponds or flowages and,
  • Lands within 300 feet of the OHWM or to the landward side of the floodplain of a navigable river or stream, whichever distance is greater.
The ordinary high-water mark (OHWM) is the point on the bank or shore up to which the water, by its presence and action or flow, leaves a distinct mark indicated by erosion, destruction of or change in vegetation or other easily recognizable characteristics. Waters are legally navigable if they have a bed and bank and levels of flow sufficient to support navigation by a recreational craft of the shallowest draft on a recurring basis. Floodplain boundaries adjacent to rivers and streams are determined by official maps and flood studies adopted by Langlade County that are available through the Langlade County Land Records and Regulations Department (LRRD).

Other permits may be required from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for activities such as installing shoreland stabilization structures (i.e. rock riprap), grading, placing a dock, or installing a wildlife pond. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) may have jurisdiction if you are doing any filling or grading near a wetland. See "Contacts", for agency addresses and phone numbers.