Get the Facts on the Do’s and Don’ts of the Wisconsin Architectural Seal
Understanding the rules and regulations associated with use of the Wisconsin architectural seal is essential to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of the public. Architects design and create specifications builders follow to construct not only aesthetically pleasing but also sound buildings and structures. Affixing the Wisconsin architectural seal to documents states to everyone that the designs adhere to important national and state regulations.
Let’s start with the basics. The specified requirements for the Wisconsin architectural seal. Different states ask their registered architects to follow specific size, wording, and even shape specifications when it comes to their architectural seal. Wisconsin is no different. The following are the expectations for the Wisconsin architectural seal:
- Rubber stamp
- Embossing seal
- Size of stamp or seal must be between 1-5/8” to 2” diameter
- Registered architect’s name
- Registration or permit number
- City and state in which the registered architect conducts business
- Two letter United States Postal state abbreviation may be used for state
- Prefix “A” used before registration or permit number
Today, many people move from one part of the country to another and one state to another. It is imperative that an architect who moves his or her business from one state to another know the specific state requirements prior to conducting business in their new state.
Documents Requiring the Wisconsin Architectural Seal
Once the architect has the proper Wisconsin architectural seal, they must understand when and where this seal should be used.
- Each sheet of plans, drawings, documents, reports, and specifications are required to be signed, sealed with the official Wisconsin architectural seal, and dated by the registered architect who planned it, controlled the planning of it, or directed the planning of the documents
- When the sheets of plans, drawings, documents, reports, or specifications are bound together, the registered architect holding the Wisconsin architectural seal may seal and sign the index pages or title sheet so long as these pages identify the following pages clearly
- Any changes to the plans, drawings, documents, reports, or specifications that impact the health and welfare of the public must also be sealed and signed
- Documents created and designed by a United States registered engineer under the direct supervision of the architect in possession of the Wisconsin architectural seal
- In the above scenario, the registered engineer for whom the architect is affixing the Wisconsin architectural seal must attach to the documents signed and dated certifications describing the work performed by the engineer and certifying that the registered architect with the Wisconsin architectural seal bears responsibility for the designs and plans
When Does Wisconsin Require Original Documents to be Filed?
All documents filed with public agencies must be original, sealed, and signed adhering to the following guidelines:
- Signed in permanent ink contrasting the Wisconsin architect’s seal
- By an electronic signature within the guidelines of Wisconsin’s 137.06 statutes as permitted by government agency the documents will be filed with
If you are familiar with other state’s guidelines for the use of architectural seals you may notice that Wisconsin’s architectural seal comes with additional criteria. This is to ensure the standards set forth by the governing bodies and boards in Wisconsin are strictly adhered to for the safety and welfare of the public.
Too often the public overlooks the great responsibility held by professions such as architects, engineers, land surveyors, and many others. Rules and regulations for medical professionals are widely accepted and understood, however the importance of the regulations for architects and engineers are just as vital to public well-being. The Wisconsin architect’s seal is a recognizable sign that the plans and designs for buildings and structures in Wisconsin are followed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Wisconsin architectural seal and why is it important?
The Wisconsin architectural seal, also called the Wisconsin architect stamp, is used by a registered architect to indicate that plans, drawings, reports, and specifications meet state requirements. It helps confirm the documents were prepared under the architect’s supervision and supports public safety, health, and welfare.
What information must be included on a Wisconsin architect seal?
A Wisconsin architect seal must include the architect’s name, registration or permit number, city and state of practice, and the appropriate prefix “A” before the number. The seal must also meet Wisconsin’s size requirements and can be a rubber stamp or embossing seal.
Which documents need to be sealed in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, each sheet of plans, drawings, documents, reports, and specifications generally must be signed, sealed, and dated by the registered architect responsible for the work. If documents are bound together, the architect may seal and sign the title sheet or index page if it clearly identifies the included pages.
Do changes to architectural documents require a new Wisconsin seal?
Yes. Any changes to plans, drawings, documents, reports, or specifications that affect the health and welfare of the public must also be sealed and signed by the registered architect. This helps ensure that revised documents remain compliant with Wisconsin regulations.
Can a Wisconsin architect seal be used on documents prepared by an engineer?
Yes, in certain cases. If a U.S.-registered engineer prepares documents under the direct supervision of an architect who holds the Wisconsin architectural seal, the architect may affix the seal. The engineer must also provide signed and dated certifications describing the work performed and confirming the architect’s responsibility.
Are electronic signatures allowed on documents filed with Wisconsin public agencies?
Yes, electronic signatures may be allowed if they comply with Wisconsin statute 137.06 and the requirements of the government agency receiving the documents. In some cases, original documents must still be sealed and signed in permanent ink, so it’s important to verify the agency’s filing rules first.
