Dane County municipalities allow wood (cedar, treated pine), vinyl, wrought iron, chain-link, and composite fencing. Madison General Ordinance §28 zoning specifies material rules. Barbed wire prohibited residentially; electric fencing limited to ag zones. Materials must withstand WI freeze-thaw.
Fence materials in Dane County are governed by each municipality's zoning code. Madison General Ordinance Ch. 28 (Zoning) permits wood, vinyl, wrought iron, chain-link, and masonry in residential districts. Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited in residential zones across Madison, Sun Prairie, Fitchburg, Middleton, Verona, Stoughton, Monona, Waunakee, DeForest, Oregon, and McFarland. Electric fencing is generally restricted to properties zoned agricultural under the Dane County Zoning Ordinance Ch. 10. Chain-link is often prohibited in front yards or historic districts (Madison has multiple local historic districts under WI §66.1011 and MGO §41). Cedar (Western Red or Northern White) and vinyl are most popular due to freeze-thaw cycles that crack inferior materials. Pressure-treated pine must be rated for ground contact. HOAs in newer subdivisions like Grandview Commons (Madison) or Prairie Lakes (Sun Prairie) typically require specific materials and prohibit chain-link.
Non-compliant materials: code compliance notice and required replacement. Historic district violations referred to Landmarks Commission. HOA fines per CC&Rs.
Fitchburg, WI
Fitchburg regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound amplification permits available for events. WI Stat. §947.01 applies.
Fitchburg, WI
Fitchburg considers excessive barking a nuisance. Animal control handles complaints. WI Stat. §174 covers dog regulation statewide.
Fitchburg, WI
Fitchburg enforces quiet hours typically 10 PM to 7 AM. Noise disturbances enforceable under WI Stat. §947.01 (Disorderly Conduct).
Fitchburg, WI
Fitchburg enforces street parking restrictions locally. Winter alternate-side parking critical. No statewide consecutive parking limit. WI Stat. §346.503 app...
Fitchburg, WI
Fitchburg restricts commercial vehicle parking in residential zones. Weight, size, and signage limits apply. Overnight heavy truck storage prohibited.
Fitchburg, WI
Fitchburg requires vehicles parked on improved surfaces. Front lawn parking prohibited. Driveway modifications require permits.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dane County.
See how Fitchburg's material restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.