Selling property with a dam

Both the seller of property on which a dam is located and the buyer of the property must cooperate to complete a dam transfer application.

The buyer must show financial capability to maintain the dam and a permit may be required. An inspection is also required prior to transferring the property and dam. Responsibility for the repairs may be negotiated between the buyer and seller. Generally, repairs needed to bring the dam into compliance with safety standards shall be completed prior to the transfer. In some situations, arrangements can be made to complete repairs during or after the transfer as long as the repair costs are included as part of the financial capability determination. Realtors, attorneys and lenders are required by law to advise clients of these requirements (s. 710.11, Wis. Stats.) If dam transfer requirements are not met, the real estate transaction may be nullified.

Transfer permit application materials are available at Permit information and applications.

Contact information

DNR Dam Safety
DNR Dam Safety Program, WT/3
101 S Webster St
PO Box 7921
Madison WI 53707–7921