Political Signs: Madison vs Middleton
How do political signs rules compare between Madison, WI and Middleton, WI?
Madison and Middleton have similar restriction levels.
Madison, WI
Dane County
Political signs are permitted on private property in Madison under MGO Chapter 31. Signs may be displayed on residential property without a permit, subject to size limits and right-of-way restrictions. First Amendment protections apply.
View full Madison rules →Middleton, WI
Dane County
Madison MGO §31.043 and Dane County sign codes allow political signs on private property. First Amendment and Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015) bar content-based rules. WI §12.04 prohibits signs on public property. Typical limit 32 sq ft residential. Removal within 7 days post-election customary.
View full Middleton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Madison | Middleton |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Not required residential | - |
| Size | 6 sq ft typical | - |
| Right-of-Way | Prohibited | - |
| Polling Places | 100 ft buffer (WI 12.03) | - |
| Private Property | Owner consent required | - |
| Madison Code | - | MGO §31.043 |
| Typical Size | - | 6 sq ft residential |
| Public Property | - | Banned Wis. Stat. §12.04 |
| Reed v. Gilbert | - | 2015 - no content rules |
| Sight Triangle | - | 25 ft clear |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Madison FAQ
Can I put a political sign in my yard?
Yes. Political signs on private property do not require a permit and are protected speech, subject to size and placement rules.
Can signs go on utility poles?
No. Signs on utility poles, street trees, or public signs are prohibited and removed without notice.
Middleton FAQ
How many political signs can I have in my Madison yard?
No numeric limit on political signs per lot, but total aggregate sign area is capped at 6 sq ft in most residential districts under MGO §31.043.
Can Madison make me remove my sign after the election?
Time limits tied only to election dates are constitutionally questionable post-Reed v. Gilbert (2015). Madison generally applies the same rules as other temporary noncommercial signs.
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