Permit Requirements: Madison vs Sun Prairie
How do permit requirements rules compare between Madison, WI and Sun Prairie, WI?
Sun Prairie has fewer restrictions than Madison.
Madison, WI
Dane County
Madison requires all short-term rentals to obtain a Tourist Rooming House license under MGO Chapter 32 and state DATCP. Non-owner-occupied STRs are capped at 30 nights per year unless the property qualifies as owner-occupied primary residence.
View full Madison rules →Sun Prairie, WI
Dane County
Sun Prairie requires city licensing for short-term rentals plus DATCP tourist rooming house license. Growing bedroom community status creates modest STR demand for visitors to the Madison metro area.
View full Sun Prairie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Madison | Sun Prairie |
|---|---|---|
| Code | MGO Chapter 32 | - |
| State License | DATCP required | - |
| Non-Owner Cap | 30 nights/year | - |
| Primary Residence | Required for more | - |
| Fine | Up to 1,000/day | - |
| City License | - | Required |
| DATCP License | - | Required |
| Inspection | - | Building + safety |
| Ban Prohibited | - | WI Act 59 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Madison FAQ
Can I Airbnb my Madison second home all year?
No. If the property is not your primary residence, Madison limits rentals to 30 nights per calendar year under MGO Chapter 32.
Do I need both state and city STR licenses in Madison?
Yes. You need a DATCP Tourist Rooming House license and a City of Madison license from Public Health Madison Dane County.
Sun Prairie FAQ
Can my city ban STRs?
No. WI Act 59 prohibits cities from banning STRs outright. They can regulate with licensing and safety rules.
Do I need a DATCP license?
Tourist rooming house licensing through DATCP may be required in addition to city permits.
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