A Small Wisconsin City Is Rewriting Its Zoning Code – Here’s Why That Matters for Buyers

Written by:

Alejandra Rodriguez

Date:

09 Mar 2026

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Anyone who has tried to build or invest in property knows the frustration of deciphering zoning codes: confusing setback rules, contradictory requirements, and dense documents that seem outdated. In Amery, Wisconsin, these regulations were last overhauled in 2004 and have since become a patchwork of amendments that are difficult to interpret.

Now, Amery is taking direct action. The city is rewriting its zoning code from the ground up, eliminating jargon, clarifying requirements, and aiming to make the rules accessible for anyone looking to build a home, open a business, or invest locally.

“They were last codified in 2004 and have been piecemeal since then, but often contradictory or at least difficult to understand,” says Alex Mansfield, Amery’s City Administrator. “We’re going to try to take a hammer and chisel approach and say, what do we not need? What do we need?”

For buyers, builders, and small investors, this overhaul can significantly impact project timelines and costs. Clear zoning rules allow projects to move faster, reduce unexpected expenses, and minimize the risk of costly changes during construction.

Zoning Codes Evolve

Zoning codes are meant to answer straightforward questions: How close can I build to the property line? What is allowed on this lot? Are there environmental restrictions?

However, cities typically add amendments and exceptions over time, often without removing outdated language, so the codes can become increasingly complex and inconsistent. In Amery, the existing code is lengthy and hard to follow, making it challenging for developers to understand requirements for setbacks, site use, or permitted activities. “That’s not a very useful thing for a developer who wants to know what the site use requirements are in a simple, easy-to-understand format,” Mansfield says.

The city’s 10-month rewrite project is focused on making the code concise, consistent, and user-friendly. The intent is to make Amery more appealing for anyone considering building a custom home or starting a business.

How the Rewrite Affects Buyers and Builders

Simplified zoning rules directly reduce friction in the development process. The changes are expected to bring several benefits:

• Faster approvals. When requirements are clear at the outset, there is less need for extended discussions with city staff or delays caused by unclear language.
• Fewer surprises. Buyers and builders can determine exactly what’s allowed before purchasing a lot, reducing the risk of expensive mid-project changes.
• Greater confidence for small investors. For those considering a duplex, small commercial building, or custom home, transparent rules make it easier to assess feasibility and move forward.

Amery’s zoning update is part of a broader push to attract housing and business development. The city is seeking new construction, especially for attainable housing and light manufacturing, and recognizes that outdated codes have discouraged investment.

“We’re trying to stay within the confines of being a government, but also see what we can do to be an attractive place to operate,” Mansfield says.

Small Cities Prioritize Clarity

Amery is not unique in recognizing the drawbacks of complicated zoning codes. Across the country, small cities are finding that unclear rules drive away developers. In regions where builders have choices, they are more likely to select cities that make the process straightforward.

Located about an hour from the Twin Cities, Amery offers lakes, riverfront property, a strong manufacturing base, and strong housing demand. The city owns 18 acres of land with full utilities, ready for development. However, to bring in the right projects, the city needs to ensure the rules are clear and accessible.

The zoning rewrite is only one part of Amery’s strategy. The city also offers tax increment financing, pay-as-you-go incentives, and negotiable terms on city-owned land. But none of these incentives matter if potential developers cannot understand what is permitted.

What Buyers and Builders Should Expect

For those interested in building or investing in Amery, the new zoning code is expected to be finalized by year-end. Once adopted, the revised code will provide greater clarity on several key points:

• Setback requirements for both residential and commercial properties, making it easier to plan building footprints.
• Site use rules for mixed-use developments, clarifying what combinations of residential, retail, or office space are permitted.
• Environmental restrictions and wetland delineations, helping buyers avoid costly surprises related to site conditions.
• Permitted usage in different zoning districts, so investors can quickly determine if their intended project is allowed.

For buyers and builders waiting for clearer guidelines, the new code is expected to reduce delays, lower soft costs such as legal and consulting fees, and increase confidence that projects will proceed as planned.

Looking Ahead

Zoning codes rarely attract public attention, but they play a central role in shaping how and where communities grow. After years of slow growth and missed opportunities due to confusing rules, Amery is signaling that it wants to make development easier and more predictable.

By rewriting its zoning code, the city is removing barriers that have hindered new housing and business projects. For buyers, builders, and investors, this is an opportunity to enter a market that is actively working to attract development – with a clearer, more reliable regulatory path.

About the Expert: Alex Mansfield is City Administrator for the City of Amery, Wisconsin, a community of nearly 3,000 people about an hour from the Twin Cities. He oversees city operations, budgeting, and serves as the primary liaison for development projects.

This article is based on information provided by the expert source cited above. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Readers should conduct their own research and consult qualified professionals before making any real estate or financial decisions.