Engineering

The City Engineer and Engineering Department prepare construction plans, estimate proposed project costs, and prepare contracts and specifications for street improvements, public utility installations and various other public works projects. They:

  • Maintain and update city maps (zoning, land use, traffic, etc.)
  • Review land subdivision plats and certified survey maps
  • Plan street and alley lighting
  • Inspect public works construction

Fences & Retaining Walls

The Common Council has adopted an ordinance regarding the construction and maintenance of retaining walls and fences. In general, fences and retaining walls must be kept in good repair or removed. Fences must be constructed of materials specifically manufactured for use as a fence, such as chain link, split rail, or "board on board". New retaining walls must be constructed of split face masonry block, natural stone, pressure treated landscape timbers, or poured concrete if approved by the City Engineer. New walls (constructed after adoption of the ordinance) cannot be constructed of railroad ties, logs, pipes, metal, or other materials. 

Walls cannot block drainage from adjacent properties. The complete ordinance can be reviewed at City Hall or viewed on the website under "Municipal Codes". A permit is required for fences and retaining walls. Contact the Engineering Department at 414-768-8053 if you have questions.

Downspout & Sump Pump Discharge

The Municipal code requires that water be discharged in a manner that does not create a public safety hazard, such as icing of sidewalks or streets. Also per city code, downspouts and sump pumps cannot be discharged in a manner which creates a nuisance to a neighbor. Extension pipes on sump pumps and downspouts cannot extend to your property line.

Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District