Noise Rules: Appleton vs Kaukauna

How loud can my Appleton Airbnb guests be at night?

Appleton Section 12-81 caps residential noise at 52 dBA between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. as measured at or beyond the property line, and Section 12-87 makes it unlawful to play a radio or amplifier audible from 75 feet or more. The general nuisance rule in Section 12-80 also prohibits any loud or disturbing sound that would annoy a reasonable person.

Does Wisconsin Statute 66.1014 prevent Appleton from enforcing noise rules against my STR?

No. Wis. Stat. 66.1014 prevents Appleton from banning rentals of seven consecutive days or longer but expressly preserves local authority to enforce noise, parking and health-and-safety ordinances. Chapter 12 Article IV applies to short-term rentals exactly as it applies to long-term residences.

How loud can my Kaukauna Airbnb guests play music?

Kaukauna's noise ordinance makes it prima facie evidence of a violation if any radio, stereo or similar device at your STR can be heard outside a 75-foot radius of the source. The ordinance also prohibits operating any music or audio system 'in a loud and unnecessary manner' regardless of distance. Hosts who want to allow amplified music for an event must apply through the city's Amplified Music Application process.

Can Kaukauna enforce noise rules against my short-term rental?

Yes. Wisconsin Statute 66.1014 prevents Kaukauna from prohibiting residential rentals of seven days or longer, but it expressly preserves the city's authority to enforce noise, health and safety ordinances. The 75-foot audibility rule and the Chapter 10 public-nuisance provisions apply to tourist rooming houses exactly as they apply to long-term residences.

What about barking dogs at my Kaukauna STR?

Section 10.05(10) of the Kaukauna Municipal Code declares it a public nuisance to keep or harbor any animal or fowl which, by frequent or habitual howling, yelping, barking, crowing or making of other noises, greatly annoys or disturbs a neighborhood. STR hosts who allow pets are responsible for ensuring guest animals do not generate sustained barking complaints.