Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB175

Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/15/25
• Refer: 4/15/25

Caption

Requiring periodic inspections of parking structures.

Impact

The introduction of AB175 is expected to enhance the safety standards associated with parking structures, ensuring they can withstand the loads and uses for which they were designed. By requiring regular professional oversight, the legislation aims to reduce the risk of structural failures that could endanger public safety. Furthermore, municipalities that opt to take on the inspection duties will have greater authority over local infrastructure, possibly leading to improved compliance with safety regulations.

Summary

Assembly Bill 175 mandates that owners of parking structures must engage a registered professional engineer to conduct periodic inspections of the structural integrity of these structures. The bill stipulates that these inspections must occur at least once every five years following the effective date of the legislation. Additionally, owners are required to submit the inspection results to the relevant plan review authority, which could either be the Department of Safety and Professional Services or the local governmental body authorized to perform commercial building examinations.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as a positive step for public safety, there could be points of contention regarding the financial implications for parking structure owners. The requirement to hire a professional engineer may impose additional costs on these owners, and the associated penalties for non-compliance—such as fines and the potential closure of non-inspected structures—could raise concerns. Moreover, local governments may express varying opinions on their increased responsibilities under the new regulations, particularly regarding resource allocation for inspections.