Noise Ordinances in Milwaukee, WI (2026)
9 verified noise ordinances for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Quiet Hours
Milwaukee Code Ch. 80 sets nighttime quiet hours from 9 PM to 7 AM. Noise standards under §§80-60 through 80-65 apply to music systems and amplified sound.
Milwaukee Quiet Hours & Noise Ordinance
Some RestrictionsConstruction Hours
Construction sites are generally exempt from Milwaukee's nighttime noise ordinance. Lawn mowers and noisy equipment are prohibited 9 PM–8 AM under MCO §80-67-4.
Milwaukee Construction Noise Hours
Some RestrictionsBarking Dogs
Persistent barking that constitutes a nuisance is prohibited under MCO Chapter 78 (Animals) and Chapter 80 (Nuisances). Owners can be cited and fined.
Milwaukee Barking Dog Regulations
Some RestrictionsLeaf Blower Rules
Milwaukee has no dedicated leaf blower ordinance. Gas and electric blowers are governed by the general noise provisions of Milwaukee Code of Ordinances Chapter 80 (Noise Control).
Noise: Leaf Blower Rules
Few RestrictionsAmplified Music & Events
Milwaukee regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound amplification permits available for events. WI Stat. §947.01 applies.
Milwaukee Amplified Music & Event Noise Rules
Some RestrictionsAircraft Noise
Aircraft noise is federally regulated. Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) generates significant aircraft noise in southern Milwaukee; local ordinances cannot override FAA authority.
Milwaukee Aircraft Noise Regulations & Airport Compatibility
Few RestrictionsIndustrial Noise
Milwaukee regulates industrial noise through Chapter 80 of the Code of Ordinances and through zoning performance standards in Chapter 295, which cap industrial sound levels at receiving residential property lines.
Noise: Industrial Noise
Some RestrictionsDecibel Limits
Milwaukee Code Chapter 80 sets measurable decibel limits of 60 dBA daytime and 55 dBA at night at residential property lines, with higher limits in commercial and industrial zones.
Noise: Decibel Limits
Some RestrictionsOutdoor Music
Outdoor music in Milwaukee is governed by Chapter 80 noise rules and special event permitting. Amplified music must end by 10 PM in residential areas and 11 PM in mixed-use zones.
Noise: Outdoor Music
Some RestrictionsLooking for Milwaukee County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Milwaukee city rules.
Noise Ordinances in Milwaukee County →