Madison permits home occupations in all residential districts under MGO 28.151 with limits on employees, customer traffic, and space used. No more than 25 percent of the dwelling floor area may be devoted to the business.
MGO 28.151 authorizes home occupations as accessory uses in residential zones. Core standards: no more than 25 percent of the dwelling's floor area may be used for the business; no non-resident employees on-site (limited exceptions for family caregivers); activity must not create noise, odor, traffic, or other impacts exceeding normal residential use; outdoor storage of business materials is prohibited; no retail sales except by appointment or online-fulfillment shipping. Certain activities such as auto repair, adult uses, commercial kitchens, and manufacturing are prohibited as home occupations. A zoning permit is required before operating. Home-based daycares follow separate state licensing (DCF) and local zoning rules. Cottage food and micro-bakery operations are allowed under WI Stat 97.29 Cottage Food exemption (2017 Act 62). Conditional use review may apply for higher-impact activities in some districts.
MGO 28.151 violations carry forfeitures typically 150 to 500 dollars plus cease-and-desist orders.
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...
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