Garage Sale Signs: Madison vs Middleton
How do garage sale signs rules compare between Madison, WI and Middleton, WI?
Madison has fewer restrictions than Middleton.
Madison, WI
Dane County
Garage sale signs are permitted on private property with owner permission. Signs in the public right-of-way, on utility poles, and on traffic signs are prohibited. Remove signs within 24 hours of the sale ending.
View full Madison rules →Middleton, WI
Dane County
Madison MGO §31.043 treats garage sale signs as temporary noncommercial signs, limited to 6 sq ft, with up to 2 off-premises signs allowed for 3 days. No signs on utility poles, street signs, or in the right-of-way per Wis. Stat. §86.19. Must remove within 24 hours of sale.
View full Middleton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Madison | Middleton |
|---|---|---|
| Private Property | Permitted with consent | - |
| Right-of-Way | Prohibited | - |
| Utility Poles | Prohibited | - |
| Remove By | 24 hours after sale | - |
| Code | MGO Chapter 31 | - |
| Size Limit | - | 6 sq ft |
| Off-Premises | - | Typically 2 with permission |
| Duration | - | 3 consecutive days |
| Sales/Year | - | 3 max per lot |
| ROW Ban | - | Wis. Stat. §86.19 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Madison FAQ
Can I put garage sale signs on utility poles?
No. Signs on utility poles, street trees, and public signs are prohibited and removed by City crews.
When must signs be taken down?
Remove signs within 24 hours after the sale ends or they may be treated as litter.
Middleton FAQ
Can I staple a garage sale sign to a utility pole?
No. This violates Wis. Stat. §86.19 and Madison MGO §31, subject to removal and $25-$50 fines per sign.
How many garage sales can I hold per year in Madison?
Generally 3 per year per residential lot. More frequent sales may be treated as unlicensed retail.
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