Brush Clearance: Madison vs Middleton
How do brush clearance rules compare between Madison, WI and Middleton, WI?
Madison and Middleton have similar restriction levels.
Madison, WI
Dane County
Madison requires property owners to clear brush, tall grass, and dead vegetation that create fire or nuisance hazards under MGO 27.05. The Urban Forestry Division and Building Inspection coordinate enforcement in wooded lots and near lakeshores.
View full Madison rules →Middleton, WI
Dane County
Dane County Code Ch. 35 (Weeds) and municipal property maintenance codes require vacant lot and residential brush/weed control. WI DNR manages wildfire risk primarily in central/northern Wisconsin; Dane County focus is urban weed abatement and shoreland buffer rules.
View full Middleton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Madison | Middleton |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | MGO 27.05 | - |
| Enforcement | Building Inspection | - |
| Disposal | No burning - chip or haul | - |
| Abatement | Billed to tax roll | - |
| EAB | Dead ash prioritized | - |
| County Code | - | Dane Co Ch. 35 weeds |
| WI Statute | - | §66.0407 noxious weeds |
| Madison Grass | - | MGO §27.05 (8 inches) |
| Shoreland | - | NR 115 35-ft buffer |
| Burn Permits | - | WI DNR §26.12 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Madison FAQ
Can I burn cleared brush on my property?
No. Madison prohibits open burning of brush. Use city drop-off sites or a private chipper service.
Who removes dead ash trees in the boulevard?
Urban Forestry handles terrace trees. Trees on private property are the owner's responsibility.
Middleton FAQ
Do I need a DNR burn permit in Dane County?
Yes during spring fire season (March 1 to May 31) for any outdoor burning outside city limits. Urban Dane County municipalities generally prohibit open burning entirely under municipal fire codes.
What happens if my vacant lot has overgrown weeds?
Madison and most Dane County municipalities issue a notice, then abate at owner expense under WI §66.0407. Costs become a special assessment and property lien.
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