Wisconsin's Forest Tax Laws

Wisconsin's forest tax laws encourage sustainable forest management on private lands by providing a property tax incentive to landowners. There are two forest tax law programs: the Managed Forest Law (MFL) and the Forest Crop Law (FCL). Only the MFL program is open for new enrollment.

Both programs encourage forest management through a written management plan that incorporates landowner objectives, timber management, wildlife management, water quality and the environment as a whole to create a healthy and productive forest. In exchange for following a written management plan and program rules, landowners pay forest tax law program rates in lieu of regular property taxes.

There are many rules and regulations for each program. Please use this website and other resources to gather information and make informed decisions. For more specific information or inquiries, refer to the Forestry Assistance Locator for guidance.

If you are interested in managing your property for wildlife, consider the Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP). More information is also available on our Forest Tax Laws page.