Noise Ordinances in Madison, WI (2026)
8 verified noise ordinances for Madison, Wisconsin, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Quiet Hours
Madison establishes quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM under MGO Chapter 24 (Noise). Disturbing the peace during these hours is cited as a noise violation, and state law WI Stat 947.01 (disorderly conduct) may also apply for egregious cases.
Noise: Quiet Hours
Some RestrictionsConstruction Hours
Construction noise in Madison is generally restricted to 7 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with tighter limits on Sundays and holidays under MGO Chapter 24. Public works and emergency repairs are exempt.
Noise: Construction Hours
Some RestrictionsBarking Dogs
Madison MGO 23.32 and Chapter 24 prohibit dogs from habitual or prolonged barking that disturbs neighbors. Owners face citations after documented complaints, and chronic offenders may be declared a public nuisance.
Noise: Barking Dogs
Some RestrictionsLeaf Blower Rules
Leaf blowers in Madison are permitted during standard daytime hours (7 AM to 7 PM typical) under MGO Chapter 24 noise standards. The city has discussed but not enacted gas-blower bans, and electric alternatives are encouraged under Madison climate goals.
Noise: Leaf Blowers
Some RestrictionsAmplified Music & Events
Amplified music in Madison is tightly regulated under MGO Chapter 24, especially in the downtown and UW-Madison campus area. Sound audible beyond 50 feet or across property lines after 10 PM is presumptively a violation.
Noise: Amplified Music
Heavy RestrictionsAircraft Noise
Aircraft noise in Madison, primarily from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) and Truax Field Air National Guard Base (F-35s), is regulated federally by the FAA, not by city ordinance. Local land-use planning and a noise compatibility program manage impacts.
Noise: Aircraft Noise
Few RestrictionsIndustrial Noise
Commercial and industrial noise in Madison is regulated by MGO Chapter 24 and WI DNR NR 204 standards. Establishments must keep noise at property lines within reasonable limits, especially adjacent to residential zones.
Noise: Commercial Noise
Some RestrictionsVehicle Noise
Madison MGO 12.76 prohibits unnecessary vehicle noise including loud exhaust, revving, squealing tires, and audible car stereos beyond 50 feet. State vehicle equipment law WI Stat 347.39 also requires functional mufflers.
Noise: Vehicle Noise
Some RestrictionsLooking for Dane County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Madison city rules.
Noise Ordinances in Dane County →