Madison public parks are generally closed from 10 PM to 4 AM under MGO 8.16 Parks Rules. Entering or remaining in a park after hours without a permit is prohibited. Lake access and bike paths have separate rules.
Madison Parks Division regulations under MGO 8.16 establish that City parks are closed between 10:00 PM and 4:00 AM unless an event permit authorizes otherwise. Closure applies to all park lands including playgrounds, picnic areas, beaches, and most pathways within park boundaries. Certain designated bike paths and connector routes may remain open for through-travel under specific conditions. Fishing from piers and approved shoreline locations is allowed during posted fishing hours, which may extend beyond general park hours. Camping in parks is prohibited except at designated campgrounds with a permit. Alcohol consumption in parks requires a permit. Enforcement is by Madison Police Department and Parks staff; violators face citations and possible trespass warnings. Special event permits may allow after-hours use for scheduled activities.
After-hours park use without permit results in citations under MGO 8.16 and possible trespass enforcement.
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See how Madison's park curfew rules stack up against other locations.
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