Occupancy Limits: Madison vs Middleton
How do occupancy limits rules compare between Madison, WI and Middleton, WI?
Madison and Middleton have similar restriction levels.
Madison, WI
Dane County
Madison STR occupancy is limited by bedroom count and building code egress standards, typically 2 persons per bedroom plus 2 additional, per MGO Chapter 32 licensing standards.
View full Madison rules →Middleton, WI
Dane County
Madison MGO §28.151 caps tourist rooming house occupancy at 2 per bedroom plus 2 additional guests. Wis. Stat. §66.1014 preempts outright STR bans but allows reasonable occupancy limits. Dane County unincorporated areas apply Ch. 10 standards.
View full Middleton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Madison | Middleton |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2/bedroom + 2 | - |
| Code | MGO Chapter 32 | - |
| State Rule | ATCP 72 | - |
| Egress | Required per room | - |
| Post | Occupancy in unit | - |
| Madison Formula | - | 2/bedroom + 2 |
| Madison Cap | - | Typically 8 guests |
| State Preemption | - | Wis. Stat. §66.1014 |
| State License | - | ATCP 72 tourist rooming |
| Room Tax | - | ~10% Madison + 5% state |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Madison FAQ
Can I advertise my Madison STR as sleeping 12 if it has 4 bedrooms?
Only if your license permits that occupancy and each sleeping area meets egress and safety standards. Common cap is 10 (2 per bedroom + 2).
Does Madison limit unrelated adults in a rental?
Yes, single-family zoning generally limits household composition. Check MGO Chapter 28 family definitions.
Middleton FAQ
Can Madison ban Airbnbs entirely?
No. Wis. Stat. §66.1014 preempts outright bans of rentals 6 nights or shorter. Madison may require licenses, cap occupancy, and impose taxes.
How many guests can stay in a 3-bedroom Madison STR?
Under MGO §28.151, maximum is 2 per bedroom plus 2 additional, so 8 guests total in a 3-bedroom unit, subject to the overall cap.
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