In Wisconsin, the process to adopt or amend a comprehensive plan is outlined in state statutes. We recommend following similar procedures for other types of plans, unless state statutes or local rules dictate otherwise.

Public participation. Written procedures for public participation must describe methods to widely distribute proposed, alternative or amended elements of a plan, and procedures for the governing body to respond to public comments.

Public notice and hearing. At least one public hearing must be held prior to adopting or amending the plan. Public notice requirements are described on page 15.

Plan commission recommendation. The plan commission may recommend adoption of the plan only by adopting a resolution by a majority vote of the commission.

Governing body adoption. The plan must be adopted by ordinance by a majority vote of the governing body.

Publication and distribution. Adopted ordinances and amendments must be published as a class 1 notice and take effect on the day after publication unless otherwise prescribed. One copy of an adopted plan or amendment must be sent to the following entities:

• The Department of Administration
• The public library
• The regional planning commission
• Adjacent units of government
• Government bodies located in whole or in part within the government unit
• The commanding officer of a military base or installation with at least 200 assigned military personnel or at least 2,000 acres, located in or near the government unit

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Resources

Notice Requirements for Adopting Comprehensive Plan

Ideas for Distributing Your Plan

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