Madison requires a zoning permit for most new fences to verify height, setbacks, and location. Permits are issued by the Zoning Administrator under MGO Chapter 28. Fees are modest and turnaround is typically quick.
Under MGO Chapter 28, a zoning permit is generally required before installing, replacing, or substantially altering a fence in Madison. The permit application identifies the fence location on a site plan, height, and materials. Permit review verifies compliance with height limits (4 ft front / 6 ft side-rear), visibility triangles at corners, and easement clearances. Permit fees are typically under 75 dollars for residential projects. Fences along the front property line may require additional design review. Lake frontage fences near the four lakes (Mendota, Monona, Waubesa, Kegonsa) have separate shoreland rules. Historic districts require certificates of appropriateness from Landmarks Commission. Replacing a like-for-like existing fence in the same location may qualify for a simplified approval. Pool fences require a building permit in addition to the zoning permit.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Madison, WI
Madison has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. MGO Chapter 27 (Property Maintenance) requires general yard upkeep but does...
Madison, WI
Madison has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. MGO Chapter 24 (Noise) sets residential noise standards that could theoreti...
Madison, WI
Madison has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Timing, brightness, and animation are governed by HOA and condo covenants under Wis...
Madison, WI
Madison requires building permits for outdoor kitchens with gas lines, electrical wiring, plumbing, or structural roofs. Permits route through Madison Buildi...
Madison, WI
Madison has no specific smoker ordinance. MGO Chapter 24 (Noise) and Chapter 7 (Public Health) provide nuisance authority for excessive smoke. Wisconsin DNR ...
Madison, WI
Madison Fire Code under MGO Chapter 34 adopts the Wisconsin Commercial Building Code (SPS 361-366) and Wisconsin Administrative Code SPS 314 (Fire Prevention...
See how Madison's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.