The 300-Foot Shoreland Zone

What It Covers

NR 115 applies to all land within 300 feet of the ordinary high water mark of navigable lakes and rivers in unincorporated areas. For Petenwell and Castle Rock Lake properties, the ordinary high water mark is approximately the full summer pool water line. The 300-foot shoreland zone covers nearly all of the land area of most lakefront lots — meaning NR 115 standards apply to almost every improvement project on a shoreline property.

Incorporated vs. Unincorporated

NR 115 applies in unincorporated areas. For properties within the incorporated boundaries of a city or village (unlikely for most Petenwell and Castle Rock shoreline properties given the largely rural character of these lakeshores), different municipal zoning ordinances apply. Confirm jurisdiction with the county or municipal zoning authority for any specific property.

The 75-Foot Setback

What It Requires

NR 115 requires a minimum 75-foot setback from the ordinary high water mark for all new structures. This means no new building, addition, or permanent structure within 75 feet of the water. Existing legally nonconforming structures within this setback may be maintained and in some cases rebuilt — but their footprint cannot expand toward the water. If you are buying a property with a cabin closer than 75 feet to the water, understand that this structure is likely nonconforming and has specific limitations on what improvements can be made to it without county approval.

Replacement and Nonconforming Structures

Existing structures that predate shoreland zoning or that were legally permitted under prior, less restrictive standards are nonconforming. Wisconsin law and NR 115 provide protections for nonconforming structures — they can generally be maintained and repaired. The rules for expanding, modifying, or replacing nonconforming structures are more complex and have changed over time. For any significant project involving a nonconforming lakefront structure, contact the Juneau County Zoning Department for current guidance before investing in plans.

Impervious Surface Limits

The 15% Standard

NR 115 limits impervious surface within the 300-foot shoreland zone to 15% of the shoreland area for most development. Impervious surface includes rooftops, paved driveways, patios, and other surfaces that do not allow water infiltration. For lakefront lots that are not deeply set from the water, 15% of the shoreland area can be a meaningful constraint on driveways, patios, and additional structures. Verify the existing impervious surface coverage on any property where you intend to add structures or pavement.

The Vegetative Buffer Zone

35 Feet of Vegetation Near the Water

NR 115 requires maintaining a natural vegetative buffer within 35 feet of the ordinary high water mark — this means no mowing to a manicured lawn, no clearing of natural shoreline vegetation, and no removal of trees and shrubs within this zone except in specific circumstances. The vegetative buffer protects water quality by filtering runoff before it reaches the lake. Many lakefront buyers arrive with visions of a clear lawn running to the water's edge — NR 115 prohibits this in the 35-foot buffer and limits vegetation management in the broader shoreland zone.

When You Need a Variance

Projects that cannot meet NR 115 standards — a setback closer than 75 feet, impervious surface above the limit, or vegetation management within the buffer zone — require a variance from the Juneau County Board of Adjustment. Variances are not automatic; they require a showing of practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship. The variance process takes time and is not guaranteed. Plan significant lakefront renovation or construction projects with adequate lead time to account for the zoning review and potential variance process.

Frequently Asked Questions