Tiny Homes: Madison vs Middleton
How do tiny homes rules compare between Madison, WI and Middleton, WI?
Madison and Middleton have similar restriction levels.
Madison, WI
Dane County
Tiny homes on foundations are allowed in Madison if they meet WI Uniform Dwelling Code and zoning minimum dwelling size. Tiny houses on wheels are treated as RVs and not allowed for permanent residence outside RV parks.
View full Madison rules →Middleton, WI
Dane County
Foundation-built tiny homes in Dane County are treated as standard dwellings under Wis. Admin. Code SPS 320-325 (UDC). Tiny homes on wheels are classified as RVs/mobile homes under Wis. Stat. §101.91. 2017 Wisconsin Act 67 and Act 317 expanded ADU flexibility. Minimum habitable size is generally 150 sq ft under IRC Appendix Q.
View full Middleton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Madison | Middleton |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Tiny | Allowed as ADU or primary | IRC App. Q / SPS 320-325 |
| THOWs | Not for permanent residence | - |
| Code | WI UDC applies | - |
| ADU Option | MGO 28.151 | - |
| Min Size | Per UDC standards | - |
| ADU Preemption | - | 2017 Acts 67 and 317 |
| Min Loft Ceiling | - | 6 ft 4 in |
| THOW | - | RV classification §340.01 |
| Madison ADU Min | - | ~300 sq ft MGO §28.151 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Madison FAQ
Can I live in a tiny house on wheels in Madison?
Not permanently on a residential lot. THOWs are classified as RVs and only allowed in licensed parks.
Can a tiny home be my ADU?
Yes if built on a foundation, meets UDC, and stays under 800 square feet per MGO 28.151.
Middleton FAQ
Can I park a tiny home on wheels in my Madison backyard as my residence?
Generally no. Wisconsin Stat. §340.01(48r) classifies THOW as recreational vehicles, and Madison zoning (MGO §28) prohibits RV occupancy on residential lots. You would need a licensed campground or tiny-home overlay district.
Can I build a 350 sq ft ADU in Fitchburg?
Likely yes. Fitchburg's 2022 ADU ordinance permits detached ADUs in most residential districts consistent with 2017 Wisconsin Acts 67 and 317. Check setback, height, and owner-occupancy rules with Fitchburg Planning.
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