City Hall, 100 N. Jefferson Street, Room 608, Green Bay, WI 54301
Phone: (920) 448-3300 (8 AM–4 PM)
Website: greenbaywi.gov/permits →
WI DSPS: (608) 261-8500 · dsps.wi.gov
Green Bay HVAC permit rules — the extreme cold context
HVAC permits in Green Bay are obtained at City Hall, 100 N. Jefferson Street, Room 608. Phone: (920) 448-3300. Wisconsin SPS codes govern mechanical systems. Wisconsin DSPS-licensed HVAC contractors hold mechanical permits. WPS (Wisconsin Public Service) provides both electricity and natural gas; service changes require WPS coordination.
Green Bay is Climate Zone 6: approximately 8,200 annual heating degree days and only 400 annual cooling degree days. January lows average ~10°F. This is the most heating-dominated market in this guide — far more heating demand than any other city, including Sterling Heights MI (~6,600 HDD). High-efficiency gas furnaces (96%+ AFUE) are the standard and most economical heating choice for Green Bay's extreme heating load. Natural gas from WPS is the primary fuel source.
Air sealing is the highest-priority energy efficiency measure in Green Bay's Climate Zone 6 environment. Wisconsin SPS energy codes require comprehensive air sealing of the building envelope for new construction and significant renovations. During HVAC replacement, upgrading attic and basement air sealing and insulation significantly reduces heating energy costs. Green Bay's cold climate means heating energy costs dominate annual energy budgets; a 96% AFUE furnace with tightly sealed ductwork dramatically reduces these costs compared to an older, less efficient system.
Cold-climate heat pumps with gas backup are gaining market share in Green Bay as cold-climate heat pump technology has improved for temperatures below -15°F. A hybrid system (cold-climate heat pump + 96% AFUE gas furnace backup) can provide excellent efficiency in Green Bay's climate for homeowners who prioritize electrification options. WPS offers programs for renewable energy options.
| Factor | How it affects your Green Bay HVAC permit |
|---|---|
| Climate Zone 6: ~8,200 HDD | The most heating-dominated market in this guide. 96%+ AFUE gas furnace standard. Gas furnace with modest AC is typical Green Bay combination. Heat pump requires cold-climate model. |
| WPS: electricity AND natural gas | WPS provides both utilities. No separate utility coordination: WPS handles both electric service (for AC condenser) and gas service (for furnace). WPS customer service: 800-450-7260. |
| Air sealing critical | Wisconsin SPS energy code + Climate Zone 6: air sealing of building envelope required. Addressing duct leaks and attic/basement air sealing during HVAC replacement has very high ROI in Green Bay. |
| Wisconsin DSPS HVAC license | Wisconsin DSPS HVAC license required. EPA Section 608 refrigerant certification also required. Verify at dsps.wi.gov or (608) 261-8500. |
| Plan review fee $125 | Green Bay charges a $125 plan review fee for HVAC permits. Contact (920) 448-3300 for current total permit fee. |
What HVAC work costs in Green Bay
96% AFUE gas furnace + high-SEER AC: $4,500–$9,500. Cold-climate heat pump (with gas backup): $5,500–$10,000. Mini-split: $3,000–$6,500. Ductwork: $2,500–$6,500. Contact (920) 448-3300 for permit fee ($125 plan review + additional fees).
Common questions about Green Bay WI HVAC permits
How do I apply for an HVAC permit in Green Bay?
In-person at City Hall, 100 N. Jefferson Street, Room 608. Phone: (920) 448-3300. Wisconsin DSPS-licensed HVAC contractor applies for permit. $125 plan review fee. Contact (920) 448-3300 for current total permit fee.
What HVAC system is best for Green Bay's Climate Zone 6?
A 96%+ AFUE two-stage gas furnace with a high-SEER central air conditioner is the standard and most economical combination for Green Bay's 8,200 HDD / 400 CDD climate. Cold-climate heat pumps (rated for -15°F or lower) combined with a 96% AFUE gas furnace backup (hybrid heat pump) are gaining market share for homeowners seeking electrification options. Contact a Wisconsin DSPS-licensed HVAC contractor for a site-specific Manual J analysis.
Who provides gas and electricity to Green Bay?
Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) provides both electricity and natural gas to Green Bay. This is unlike most other cities in this guide where electricity and gas are provided by separate companies. Contact WPS at 800-450-7260 for service information.
Does Wisconsin SPS require air sealing during HVAC work?
Wisconsin SPS energy codes (Chapter SPS 363) require air sealing provisions for new construction and significant alterations. During HVAC replacement, duct sealing and building envelope air sealing in attics and basements significantly improve energy efficiency. In Green Bay's Climate Zone 6, reducing air leakage has very high ROI given the extreme heating season.
Does Green Bay require HVAC permits for furnace replacement?
Yes. Furnace and air conditioner replacement in Green Bay requires an HVAC permit from the Building Inspection Division. A Wisconsin DSPS-licensed HVAC contractor applies for and holds the permit. An inspection is required upon completion. Contact (920) 448-3300 for current requirements.
City of Green Bay Building Inspection Division. Wisconsin DSPS certification required. Contact (920) 448-3300 for current permit fee schedule. Not engineering advice.