How Menasha Handles Animal Ordinances: A Practical Guide

Menasha maintains 26 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with animal ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Menasha falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Breed Restrictions

Wisconsin does not preempt local breed-specific legislation. Some WI cities have breed bans. WI Stat. §174.042 covers dangerous dogs based on behavior.

Key details: Breed Bans: Some WI cities have them. State Law: WI Stat. §174.042. Dangerous Dogs: Behavior-based. BSL Preemption: None - cities can enact.

Breed restriction violation: varies by city. Dangerous dog violations per WI Stat. §174.042. Containment failure: $500+.

Beekeeping

Menasha may allow residential beekeeping with hive limits and setbacks. Registration with WI DATCP required. WI Stat. §94.76.

Key details: Hives: Check city limits (2 to 4 typical). Registration: WI DATCP. State Law: WI Stat. §94.76. Season: April to October active.

Unauthorized hives: removal order. Unregistered: DATCP enforcement. Nuisance complaints: city fines.

Dog Leash Laws

Menasha requires dogs on leash in public. Off-leash in designated parks only. Dog licensing required statewide under WI Stat. §174.

Key details: Leash: Required in public. Off-Leash: Designated parks only. License: Statewide requirement. State Law: WI Stat. §174.

Off-leash: $50 to $200. At-large: impound fees + citation. Unlicensed: $50 to $200. Waste: $50 to $500.

The Bottom Line

Menasha's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Menasha is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Menasha's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.