Green Bay Stormwater, Sewer and Flood Ordinances

Environmental Protection Wisconsin 3 Minutes Read ยท published March 01, 2026 Flag of Wisconsin

Green Bay, Wisconsin maintains municipal rules and enforcement for stormwater management, sanitary and storm sewer connections, and floodplain controls to protect public health and property. This guide summarizes what residents and developers need to know about local obligations, who enforces rules, how violations are handled, and where to find official permits and forms. For program details and operational contacts see the City of Green Bay Public Works - Stormwater Utility page.[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Green Bay enforces stormwater, sewer, and flood-related ordinances through its Public Works Department and Code Enforcement functions. Enforcement actions may include orders to correct, citations, civil penalties, repair or restoration orders, and referral to municipal or circuit court. For the controlling ordinance language and enforcement authority see the municipal code chapter on stormwater and sewers. [2]

  • Specified fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: correction orders, abatement, restoration, stop-work orders, and court action for enforcement.
  • Enforcer: City of Green Bay Public Works - Stormwater Utility and Code Enforcement divisions; inspections initiated by complaint, routine monitoring, or development review.
  • Appeals/review: administrative appeal or municipal court procedures exist in municipal code; specific time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/permits: defenses may include authorized permits, approved variances, or compliance with an approved remediation plan where the code allows.
Contact Public Works promptly to document issues and start corrective steps.

Common violations

  • Illicit discharges to storm sewers (e.g., dumping oil, washwater).
  • Unauthorized grading or impervious area changes that increase runoff.
  • Failure to obtain required stormwater permits or to install required erosion controls.
  • Failure to maintain private drainage or detention facilities leading to downstream damage.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes permit and application forms for stormwater management, utility connections, and floodplain development on its official site or via the municipal offices. Where a specific form name or fee is not listed on the public page, it is not specified on the cited page.

Check the City of Green Bay Public Works permit pages for the current application forms and submittal instructions.

How enforcement proceeds

Typical enforcement begins with an inspection or complaint, followed by written notice requiring corrective action. If compliance is not achieved, the City may issue citations, abate nuisances at the owner's expense, or seek court remedies. Property owners typically receive time to correct issues; exact timelines and penalty schedules should be confirmed with the cited municipal code or Public Works.

Action steps

  • Report illicit discharge, blocked drains, or flooding to City of Green Bay Public Works using the official contact or online reporting form.
  • Before starting landscaping, grading, or construction, verify whether a stormwater or floodplain permit is required and submit plans to Planning or Public Works.
  • If you receive a notice, follow the correction order and contact the issuing department to document compliance or request an appeal.

FAQ

How do I report a sewer backup or stormwater problem?
Contact City of Green Bay Public Works immediately by phone or the online reporting system; provide location, photos, and any property damage details.
Do I need a permit to alter grading or drainage on my property?
Likely yes for changes affecting runoff, impervious area, or floodplain; consult Public Works or Planning before work begins.
What if my property is in a floodplain?
Floodplain development standards apply; obtain required floodplain permits and follow elevation, construction, and drainage requirements in the municipal code.

How-To

  1. Identify whether your project affects stormwater, sewer connections, or floodplain by reviewing property maps and City guidance.
  2. Download and complete any required permit applications from Public Works or Planning, including site plans and stormwater control details.
  3. Submit applications and supporting documents to the indicated City office and pay applicable fees.
  4. Schedule inspections and implement required erosion and sediment controls during construction.
  5. After completion, request final inspection and maintain any required long-term stormwater facilities per permit conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • Confirm permit requirements early to avoid enforcement and delays.
  • Report problems promptly to Public Works to document and speed corrective action.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Green Bay - Stormwater Utility
  2. [2] Green Bay Municipal Code (Municode)

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