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Animal Ordinances

Animal Ordinances in New Berlin, WI: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in New Berlin or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. New Berlin has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

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

New Berlin 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

New Berlin 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

New Berlin'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 New Berlin is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects New Berlin'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.