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Noise Ordinances in Milwaukee County, WI (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Milwaukee County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound

Outdoor music at private venues in Milwaukee County is regulated by municipal ordinances, not the county. The county does control outdoor music in its parks: under Code Chapter 47, sound may not carry beyond 50 feet, and larger concerts need authorization from the Parks director or County Board.

Milwaukee County Outdoor Music Rules

Some Restrictions

Milwaukee County Code of Ordinances Ch. 47 (Parks and Parkways)

The director of parks, recreation and culture, or designee, or the county board, may authorize or permit musical shows, cultural events, public gatherings and exhibitions which are not limited by this section. 47.023. - Penalties. Any person violating any of the provisions of sections 47.02, 47.021 or 47.022 shall, for each offense, forfeit a penalty not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00...

Vehicle Noise

Milwaukee County does not set its own vehicle-noise ordinance for streets. Loud vehicles are governed by Wisconsin's statewide muffler statute, Wis. Stat. sec. 347.39, plus each municipality's local noise code. County parkway roads follow state motor-vehicle law and county park rules.

Milwaukee County Vehicle Noise Rules

Some Restrictions

Wis. Stat. sec. 347.39(1)

No person shall operate on a highway any motor vehicle subject to registration unless such motor vehicle is equipped with an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise or annoying smoke.

Noise Ordinances by City in Milwaukee County

3 cities in Milwaukee County have their own noise ordinances rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.

All Milwaukee County ordinances

See every category we cover for Milwaukee County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

Milwaukee County Ordinance Hub →