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Parking Rules in Madison, WI (2026)

7 verified parking rules for Madison, Wisconsin, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

RV & Boat Parking

Madison prohibits RV and boat storage on public streets beyond 48 hours. Private property storage allowed in side/rear yards with setbacks. No front-yard storage in residential zones under MGO 28 zoning code.

Parking: Rv Boat Parking

Some Restrictions

Driveway Rules

Madison requires permits for new driveway approaches and limits curb-cut widths. MGO 10.08 governs driveway construction in right-of-way. Parking on unpaved surfaces in front yards is prohibited.

Parking: Driveway Rules

Some Restrictions

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Madison restricts commercial vehicles over 10,000 lbs from residential street parking. Overnight on-street storage of trucks, tractors, and trailers prohibited in residential zones under MGO 12.76(7).

Parking: Commercial Vehicles

Some Restrictions

Street Parking Limits

Madison enforces 48-hour continuous parking limit, alternate-side parking in winter, and extensive metered/permit districts. MGO Chapter 12 governs parking. Fines $20-$60 typical; booting/towing after 5+ unpaid tickets.

Parking: Street Parking

Heavy Restrictions

Overnight Parking

Madison enforces citywide alternate-side parking November 15 through March 15 from 1 AM to 7 AM, the signature winter parking rule. Park on odd-numbered side on odd dates, even side on even dates. $60 ticket + possible tow.

Parking: Overnight Parking

Heavy Restrictions

EV Charging

Madison operates public EV chargers through MGE and the Parking Utility in city garages. New construction requires EV-ready wiring under Madison Sustainable Building Policy. No specific curbside EV regulation yet.

Parking: Electric Vehicle Charging

Few Restrictions

Abandoned Vehicles

Madison defines abandoned vehicles per WI Stat 342.40 and MGO 12.137: vehicles parked over 48 hours on streets or inoperable/unregistered vehicles on private property. Tagged then towed after 7 days; sold at auction if unclaimed.

Parking: Abandoned Vehicles

Some Restrictions

Looking for Dane County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Madison city rules.

Parking Rules in Dane County