Primary-Residence-Only Rule: Madison vs Middleton
How do primary-residence-only rule rules compare between Madison, WI and Middleton, WI?
Madison, WI
Dane County
Madison treats short-term rentals as accessory uses to a primary residence. Operators must demonstrate that the dwelling is their principal place of habitation, typically through tax records, voter registration, or a Wisconsin driver license bearing the property address.
View full Madison rules →Middleton, WI
Dane County
No data available yet for Middleton.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Madison | Middleton |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Principal residence required | - |
| Common proof | Tax bill, license, voter reg | - |
| Investor path | Conditional use permit | - |
| Code reference | MGO 28.131 | - |
| State backstop | Wis. Act 59 (2017) | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Madison FAQ
Can I register two STRs in Madison?
Generally no. The primary-residence standard limits routine licensing to one dwelling. Additional units need conditional use approval and may face neighborhood opposition.
What if I rent only when I travel?
That fits the model. Hosted or unhosted stays are allowed if the home remains your declared primary residence and you meet the six-night minimum implied by Wis. Act 59.
Middleton FAQ
No FAQs available.
Compare other topics
See how Madison and Middleton compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool