Woodland Tax Law

The Woodland Tax Law, the second forest tax law program in Wisconsin, was enacted in 1954 and covered private owners of 10 or more acres of woodland. The contract period was 15 years and enrollment closed in January 1986. Improvements with assessed value were not allowed. The last Woodland Tax Law contracts expired on December 31, 2000.

Conditions

• At least 10 acres of contiguous forest land
• Current in property tax payments
• 15-year contract period
• No building allowed

Obligations

• Pay $1.67 annual tax per acre through 1997
• Follow management plan
• Apply sound management practices
• Permit inspections

Benefits

• Protection against overcutting
• No stumpage tax
• Lower regular property tax
• Protection against annual property tax hike
• Technical assistance
• Predictable property tax
• Long-term investment
• Encouraged woodland expansion