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Assessor

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1. How is my property assessment value determined?

Real property is valued by the assessor in the manner specified in the Wisconsin property assessment manual, from actual view or from the best information that the assessor can practically obtain, at the full value which could ordinarily be obtained at the private sale. In determining the value, the assessor shall consider:

• Recent arm’s length sales of property to be assessed


• Recent arm’s length sales of reasonably comparable property


• All factors that, according to professionally acceptable appraisal practices, affect the value of the property being assessed


• The effect of any zoning ordinances or conservation restrictions


• The impairment of value because of the presence of hazardous waste or environmental pollution

2. When is my property assessment determined?

The assessed value of all property is determined as of January 1. This is the value used for the following year’s tax levy. In other words, the value of a home as of January 1, 2000, will be used to determine the amount of tax levied for 2000, which the homeowner will receive in December of 2000.

3. How will I know if my assessment value has changed?

The assessor will notify property owners of the assessment if the address is known, otherwise the occupant of the property will be notified. The notice will be in writing and sent by ordinary mail at least 10 days before the meeting of the Board of Review. It is typically mailed during the end of April or beginning of May.

4. What if I don’t agree with the assessment?

You can talk to the assessor during the open book period. This time is listed on the assessment notice which is mailed. You can also call Village Hall for the times and dates. Open book is typically during May.

5. What if I still don’t agree with the assessment?

Refer to the Board of Review.

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Building Board

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1. Do I need to appear at the Building Board meeting in person?

The applicant or applicant’s representative must attend the Building Board meeting to present the plans and respond to questions from the Building Board. If no one is present to speak on behalf of an agenda item, board action may be deferred until the next regularly scheduled meeting.

2. When will the Building Board issue their decision?

In many cases, the board will vote on a proposal at the meeting in which it is presented. The building permit will then be issued approximately 10 business days following Building Board approval. For larger projects, such as an addition or new residence, the Building Board’s review may require a two-step process. The first step would be a conceptual design review of the final plans, including the landscape plan. For larger projects, applicants should plan on two meetings with the Building Board and structure their timetable accordingly.

3. Can I begin construction after the Building Board has approved my project?

No. The Building Board approves only the design / architectural merits of the project. All projects, upon approval from the Building Board, are forwarded to the building inspector to ensure compliance with applicable building code requirements. The Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code provides building inspectors with 10 business days to take action on a building permit application. The building inspector cannot begin review of your project until all required materials (plans, Building Board approval, property survey, and other submittal requirements) have been filed with the Village.

4. Does the Building Board review air conditioners?

No, but the building inspector reviews the placement of new air conditioning compressors. All air conditioners require an HVAC permit and an electrical permit.

5. Do I need an architect for my project?

Single-family home plans do not have to be designed by an architect.

6. What does the Building Board look for in terms of building size and scale?

Building additions shall be in proportion to the primary structure and must complement the existing design and scale. New homes are reviewed for scale, site density, and intensity as well as the relationship to neighboring properties for height, setbacks, site coverage of impervious surfaces, and landscape coverage. Total coverage of a lot (including building footprint and impervious surfaces) may not exceed 30%.

7. When does the Building Board meet?

The board meets the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 5:00PM in the Park View Room.

8. Do all decks require review?

Yes, if the deck is 6 inches or greater in height.

9. Do all fences require review?

No. Decorative fences (those not greater than 40 feet in length) are reviewed and approved by Village staff. Fencing that exceeds 40 feet in length must receive approval from the Building Board.

10. I am removing an old fence and putting up a new one. Does this require review?

Yes.

11. Can the application deadline be waved?

Generally, the deadline cannot be waived. Upon meeting with the planning and zoning administrator, circumstances can be reviewed, and a discretionary decision may result.

12. Does the Building Board review sheds, doghouses, and other miscellaneous structures?

The Building Board reviews all structures. The Village Code defines a structure as “anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires location on the ground or attachment to something having a location on the ground."

13. What are the setback lines on my property?

This varies by property location. Please check the zoning map and Village Code to avoid confusion. Deed restrictions may also be applicable and may be more restrictive than Village ordinances.

14. How do I find out where my house is situated on the parcel?

Residents can hire a land surveyor to prepare a Certified Survey Map of their lot that will show the location of any structures. In some cases, a survey is already located in the property’s building file. Stop by Village Hall to view the contents of the file for your property.

15. What if I don’t obtain a permit prior to beginning work?

Permits are required by both Village ordinances and state statutes. The permit and accompanying inspections are to assure you that the work is in compliance with the Zoning Code, the appropriate building codes, and the Uniform Dwelling Code. The permit process also affords neighbors the opportunity to comment on a project, but only if a project is at variance with the codes. If a permit is not obtained prior to the commencement of work, the Village can issue a separate violation for each day the work is not in compliance, per the requirements of Chapters 106 and 335 of the Village Code of Ordinances.

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Building Inspections

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1. Do I need to submit plans for a permit related to interior building work?

Yes. Three sets of plans illustrating all interior work to be done must be reviewed and approved by the building inspector prior to permit issuance. Please allow up to 10 days for review.

2. How are wells regulated?

All residential and commercial structures in the Village are currently serviced by private wells for their primary water source. Depending on the nature of your construction project, the location of the well on your property may become important. Waukesha County is the entity responsible for regulating the use of wells.

3. Does my electrician need to be licensed by the Village?

Yes. View the Electrician License Application.

4. Do I need an electrical permit if I am just adding one outlet or a ceiling fan?

No. However, if two or more outlets are added, a permit is required.

5. Do I need a heating (HVAC) permit if I am relocating a heat register and the related duct work?

No.

6. Does my plumber need to be licensed by the State of Wisconsin?

Yes.

7. Do I need to take out a plumbing permit if I am just moving a fixture?

Yes, if new piping is involved.

8. If I am a homeowner in the Village, can I do my own electrical work?

A property owner may personally perform electrical work in his or her own single-family residence owned by and occupied by or to be occupied by him or her as a permanent residence, provided that:

1. A permit is applied for and secured in accordance with Chapter 106 (Building Construction)


2. All required fees are paid


3. The work is performed by yourself in accordance with Chapter 106 of Village Code
   
4. An inspection is applied for


5. Project approval is received from the building inspector

9. If I am a homeowner in the Village, can I do my own HVAC work?

According to COMM 5.70 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code, a homeowner is allowed to service existing HVAC equipment. If any alterations or replacement of existing equipment occurs, a licensed contractor must perform the work.

10. Do I need a plumbing permit if I am adding a fixture or appliance?

Permits are required for dishwashers and water softeners, but not for garbage disposals. A plumbing permit is also required for a new sink, tub, or toilet.

11. Do I need a permit for a gas space heater?

Yes, if it is permanently installed.

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Fire

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1. When do I call 9-1-1 and when do I call Elm Grove Dispatch at (262) 786-4141?

Dial 9-1-1 when you have an emergency that requires assistance from the Elm Grove Police, Fire, or Emergency Medical Services. If you call 9-1-1 from a phone that is on a land line, your call will go directly to the Elm Grove Dispatch located in the Village Police Department. Elm Grove Dispatch will initiate the emergency response.

If you call 9-1-1 from a cell phone, your call will be connected to the Waukesha County Communications Emergency Dispatch. They will take your emergency information and location and they will call the Elm Grove Dispatch who will initiate the emergency response. You will always get emergency assistance by calling 9-1-1 from your cell phone. However, to shorten the response time, if you use a cell phone to call for emergency assistance, you may call the Elm Grove Dispatch directly. The Elm Grove Dispatch phone number is (262) 786-4141.

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How Do I

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1. How do I pay my utility bill?

Make payments to Village of Elm Grove and submit them to:
13600 Juneau Blvd.
Elm Grove, WI 53122

2. How do I report a code violation?

Call the zoning and planning administrator at (262) 782-6700.

3. How do I report a dead animal on the side of the road?

Contact the Public Works Department at (262) 782-6700.

4. How do I apply for an Electrical Contractor License?

Download and complete the Application for Electrical Contractor's License. Instructions and required fees are included on the application. Submit all documents and payment to Village Hall in person or through the mail. Application for Electrical Contractor's License

5. How do I reserve a meeting room?

You can reserve a meeting room by contacting Village Hall at (262) 782-6700 and requesting a reservation. Meeting Room Reservation Application

6. How do I reserve a picnic area?

Two picnic areas are available to be reserved in the park by village residents or businesses in Elm Grove. A non-refundable fee is required for each area being reserved. Picnic Area 1 is located by the pool and includes a large gazebo and is equipped with a large built-in barbecue grill, picnic tables, and electrical outlets. Picnic Area 1 rental fees are $105 for up to 75 people and $165 for up to 150 people. Picnic Area 2 is located on the south end of the park and includes a small gazebo and barbeque grill; the rental fee is $50 with a maximum capacity of 50 people.

Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis beginning January 4, 2011. Reservations must be made in person at Village Hall. Availability may be checked by calling the Village Hall at (262) 782-6700. Application for a beer or wine permit must be made if either will be consumed in the park. If you have any questions about gazebo or pool reservations, please contact Recreation Director Lauren Oliveri at (262) 782-6700. View Facility Permit Application

7. How do I reserve the community pool?

Contact the recreation director at (262) 782-6700. View Facility Permit Application

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Municipal Court

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1. How do I pay a ticket?

Mail in your payment. Payment must be received prior to the court date. Make your check or money order payable to the Village of Elm Grove and mail it to:
Village of Elm Grove
13600 Juneau Blvd.
Elm Grove, WI 53122

You may also make a cash, check, or credit card payment in person 24 hours a day, seven days a week prior to the court date at:
Court Administration Building
13600 Juneau Blvd.
Elm Grove, WI 53122

Please note that no payments can be made over the phone.

2. Can I reschedule a court date?

Yes. Arrangements must be made with Municipal Court personnel at (262) 780-6676.

3. Do I need to make an appointment for my court appearance?

No. Your court appearance date and time is indicated on your citation. On that date you will check in with the bailiff, and upon commencement of the proceedings, the judge will call your case in the order that you checked in.

4. Can I plea not guilty through the mail?

Yes, as long as it is received prior to the court date. You will then receive a pretrial date in the mail. If you choose to do this, you do not need to appear at the initial appearance.

5. What happens if I don’t appear in court?

A default judgment will be entered against you by the judge with a forfeiture amount and possible demerit points. You will receive a letter in the mail advising you of the penalties imposed.

6. What happens if I don’t pay a ticket?

You will receive a driver's license suspension and/or a commitment will be issued to serve time in the county jail.

7. What if I can’t pay by the due date?

You will need to contact Municipal Court personnel to make arrangements for an extension at (262) 780-6676.

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Police

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1. How do I find information on Wisconsin's Concealed Carry Law?

Wisconsin Act 35 was signed into law on July 8, 2011, and published on July 22, 2011. However, the provisions regarding carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) licenses do not take effect until November 1, 2011. The Wisconsin Department of Justice website contains up-to-date information to answer many of the questions being asked by citizens. This information is updated as needed, so it is recommended to check back often. WI Department of Justice Concealed Carry Law

2. What training is necessary to obtain a CCW permit?

Please refer to the Wisconsin Department of Justice Conceal Carry Law webpage to obtain current information on training requirements. The Elm Grove Police Department is offering concealed weapon training classes. Additional information and class schedule are available on the webpage for Concealed Carry.

3. How do I obtain a copy of an accident report?

Accident reports are available online. You will need to know at least one piece of information: date of accident, name of individual involved, or license plate of vehicle. Accident Reports

4. How do I obtain vehicle registration forms and publications?

Motor vehicle forms are available from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website.
Wisconsin Department of Transportation

5. How do I find out where registered sex offenders live?

The Wisconsin Department of Corrections maintains an online registry of sex offenders. Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry

6. What are the Village's guidelines regarding sex offenders?

The Village of Elm Grove enacted an ordinance in 2007 regarding sex offender residency restrictions and child safety zones. Village of Elm Grove Sex Offender Ordinance

7. Where are sex offenders allowed to live in the Village of Elm Grove?

The Village has established restricted areas and child safety zones. You can view those areas on the map below. Residency Restrictions and Child Safety Zones Map

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Police - K-9 Unit

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1. How do I approach Qai?

Qai is a highly trained dog and is specifically trained to provide support to police officers in a law enforcement mission. Qai can be approached; however, it is very important to always ask his handler first. If you see Qai inside of his police car alone, you will see that he protects this environment. You may notice that he will bark at anyone approaching. Never approach any dog fast.

2. What does Qai eat?

Qai eats Science Diet for seniors to maintain a healthy weight of about 78 lbs.

3. Is Qai a male or female?

Qai is male. Although female dogs are also suitable for service work, including police K-9, the male is generally picked over the female. One of the important factors in assessing a dog, whether male or female, is that it has the proper drive for the specific work considered.

4. Where does Qai live when he is not working?

Qai lives with his handler and goes to and from work riding in a specially equipped and dedicated police vehicle. It is a marked police car with visible K-9 markings, a protective cage, bail-out, and temperature monitoring system.

5. Does Qai have any puppies?

No. There are no intentions to breed Qai. He was specifically bred from a very strict bloodline that has proven to produce excellent service dogs.

6. How is Qai trained?

This is a complicated answer. However, first and foremost is proper breeding. The success in training a police K-9 is supported by proper breeding and selection of a dog with thorough assessments at a young age. It is said that about 1 out of 500 dogs assessed are capable of performing all of the critical dual-purpose police K-9 functions. Training of Qai is ongoing with periodic training sessions at Steinig-Tal Kennels as well as annual recertification as a police K-9 team.

7. Why is the German language used to communicate and command the police K-9?

German is not the only language used to command a police K-9. Some K-9s may use French, Dutch, English, or any other language for that matter. The most important factor is consistency regardless of language spoken. Many police K-9s are German Shepherds and are imported directly from Europe where they have undergone much training in those countries. Therefore, it only makes sense to continue with the commands in the native language, of which there are about 12-15 specific words used.

8. Are police dogs all mean and dangerous?

This misconception (that all police dogs are mean and dangerous) was common of police dogs perhaps 30 years ago. Our expectations of them were quite different in training and the final product was much different than it is today. Now, we are capable of breeding and training a very friendly, safer dog that will still protect the officer and apprehend a criminal with great efficiency. Qai is very social and has enjoyed being around individuals or groups of people in a safe environment.

9. Is Qai exposed to dangerous drugs?

No. In fact, if Qai or any dog ingested the drugs he is trained to find, it would most likely have a fatal consequence. There has been a misconception that drug dogs need to consume the drug in order to have a desire to find them. This is absolutely false. First, the dog must have adequate drive to play fetch. If the proper drive is present, the odor of particular substance is then introduced and a reward mechanism, such as playing tug with a towel, is the reward for finding the specific trained odor.

10. How does Qai find dangerous drugs?

Qai has a very powerful sense of smell. No machine has been developed that can outperform the dog’s nose in scenting odors. Qai is specifically trained to scent for specific drug odors and is rewarded when he makes a find of these substances.

11. What is Deutscher Schaferhunde?

The breed was named Deutscher Schäferhund by Von Stephanitz, literally translating to "German shepherd dog". The breed was so named due to its original purpose of assisting shepherds in herding and protecting sheep. At the time, all other herding dogs in Germany were referred to by this name; they thus became known as Altdeutsche Schäferhunde or Old German Shepherd Dogs. Shepherds were first exported to Britain in 1908, and the UK Kennel Club began to recognize the breed in 1919. The word "Alsatian" was used by the United Kingdom to describe the breed for over five decades, and it still appeared in parentheses as part of the formal breed name until it was removed in 2010.

12. Is a German Shepherd part wolf?

The German Shepherd has no more wolf in them than any other breed of dog. Dogs and wolves are considered by many scientists to still be the same species, Canis lupus, although sometimes the dog is considered a subspecies, Canis lupus familiaris, or a separate species, Canis familiaris.