Noise Rules: Fitchburg vs Madison
How do noise rules rules compare between Fitchburg, WI and Madison, WI?
Fitchburg has fewer restrictions than Madison.
Fitchburg, WI
Dane County
Fitchburg short-term rental operators must comply with the city's general noise ordinance under Fitchburg Code §14.01(5), which prohibits noises disturbing the public peace. The city's STR licensing program (annual $150 license, July 1–June 30 cycle) requires hosts to obtain a separate Public Health Madison & Dane County tourist rooming house license and follow all local nuisance rules.
View full Fitchburg rules →Madison, WI
Dane County
Madison STR operators must enforce city noise ordinance MGO 24.04 with quiet hours 10 PM to 7 AM. Hosts are responsible for guest conduct, and repeated noise complaints can jeopardize the Tourist Rooming House license.
View full Madison rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fitchburg | Madison |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Code | Fitchburg §14.01(5) | - |
| STR License Fee | $150 annual | - |
| License Period | July 1 – June 30 | - |
| State Statute | Wis. Stat. §66.1014 | - |
| Report To | Police: 608-270-4300 | - |
| Quiet Hours | - | 10 PM - 7 AM |
| Code | - | MGO 24.04 |
| Host Contact | - | 24/7 required |
| House Rules | - | Written, posted |
| License Risk | - | 3+ violations |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fitchburg FAQ
Are there special noise rules for short-term rentals in Fitchburg?
No. Fitchburg applies its general noise ordinance, §14.01(5) (noises disturbing the public peace), to STRs. There are no STR-specific decibel limits or fixed quiet hours, but recurring complaints documented by the Fitchburg Police Department can be considered when the City Clerk reviews the annual $150 STR license at the July 1 renewal.
Who enforces noise complaints at a Fitchburg Airbnb?
The Fitchburg Police Department enforces §14.01(5) and Chapter 74 (Nuisances). Call 608-270-4300 while a disturbance is occurring. Wisconsin's right-to-rent statute (Wis. Stat. §66.1014) preserves the city's authority to enforce noise and nuisance rules against STR operators on the same terms as any other resident.
Madison FAQ
Can my Madison STR guests have parties?
Large parties are strongly discouraged and often prohibited by platform rules. Noise after 10 PM violates MGO 24.04 and can cost your license.
Am I liable if guests violate noise rules?
Yes. As the Tourist Rooming House licensee, you are responsible for guest conduct and repeated violations can cost your license.
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