Middleton, WI Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

40(5)(a) lists approved fence materials (treated wood, brick, masonry, natural stone, wrought iron, vinyl, coated chain link, or comparable material approved by the Zoning Administrator) and then bars a specific list of prohibited materials: rope, string, wire products, netting, cut or broken glass, paper, metal panels, corrugated metal panels, galvanized sheet metal, plywood, pallets, and fiberglass or plastic panels. 40(4)), and wire mesh or non-coated, non-galvanized chain link is barred from front yards in the SR-L, SR-M, SR-H, MH-D, TR-D, TR-F, MR-L, MR-M, and MR-H residential districts, except at parks, schools, airports, or other institutional uses.

Barbed wire or similar security fencing is restricted to the top of a security fence, must sit at least 6 feet above the ground, and is only permitted in the I-H, IOS, EXD, and AIR industrial and airport-adjacent districts, where it must still meet the setback required for the principal structure. Coated chain link must use minimum 9-gauge wire with a top rail and cannot go in front or street yards or extend toward the street past the front of the building.