The Wisconsin Petition for Voluntary Annexation is a legal process that allows property owners in unincorporated areas to request annexation into a nearby municipality. Annexation brings the property within the jurisdiction of the municipality, subjecting it to local ordinances, regulations, and services. It is an important tool for property owners who desire to benefit from municipal services, such as utilities, police and fire protection, and access to various amenities. The process begins with the submission of a petition to the governing body of the municipality that the property seeks annexation into. This petition must fulfill certain requirements outlined by Wisconsin law, such as being signed by the majority of property owners within the area seeking annexation and including an accurate legal description of the subject property. Once the petition is submitted, it undergoes a thorough review by the municipality. The governing body evaluates the merits of the proposed annexation, considering factors such as the potential impact on municipal services, infrastructure, and future planning. Public hearings may also be held to gather input and assess community support or concerns. There are different types of Wisconsin Petitions for Voluntary Annexation, classified based on the size and characteristics of the area seeking annexation. These include: 1. Individual Property Annexation — This involves a single property owner seeking annexation into a municipality. It is typically relevant when the property is surrounded by the municipality's boundaries or when the owner wants to avail themselves of municipal services. 2. Contiguous Annexation — This occurs when a group of neighboring property owners within an unincorporated area wish to join a surrounding municipality. This type of annexation is common when properties are physically connected or when the area shares a common boundary with the municipality. 3. Multiple Property Annexation — When several property owners in a larger unincorporated area request annexation, this type of petition is submitted. It often involves multiple parcels of land close to each other. 4. Master Planned Area Annexation — This type of annexation involves a larger, pre-planned development area seeking annexation into a municipality. It may include residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments that intend to benefit from accessing municipal services and infrastructure. Wisconsin's Petition for Voluntary Annexation is an essential tool for property owners who desire the advantages and benefits of being part of a municipality. It allows for a well-regulated and organized expansion of municipal boundaries while ensuring that any annexation aligns with the needs and plans of the surrounding community.