De Pere's Noise Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles noise ordinances a little differently. In De Pere, Wisconsin, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Quiet Hours

De Pere enforces quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. The Fox River downtown area has entertainment venues that follow sound level limits. St. Norbert College campus area has enhanced enforcement during the academic year.

Key details: Quiet Hours: 10 PM to 7 AM. Downtown: Fox River district. St. Norbert: Campus area enforcement. Fines: Up to $300.

First offense: $100 to $500. Repeat: up to $1,000. Disorderly conduct: Class B misdemeanor up to $1,000 and/or 90 days.

Barking Dogs

De Pere considers excessive barking a nuisance. Animal control handles complaints. WI Stat. §174 covers dog regulation statewide.

Key details: Threshold: Continuous/excessive. Agency: De Pere Animal Control. First Step: Warning letter. State Law: WI Stat. §174 / §947.01.

Warning first. Nuisance finding: $100 to $500. Daily fines for non-compliance. Court-ordered remediation possible.

Amplified Music & Events

De Pere regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound amplification permits available for events. WI Stat. §947.01 applies.

Key details: Permit: Required for public events. Residential: General limits apply. State Law: WI Stat. §947.01. Topic: Amplified Music.

Noise violation: $100 to $500. Unpermitted event: $500+. Disorderly conduct: Class B misdemeanor up to $1,000.

The Bottom Line

De Pere's noise 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 De Pere is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects De Pere'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.