Madison limits grass and weeds to 8 inches under MGO 27.05. Owners of natural landscape areas with filed management plans are exempt. Building Inspection issues orders with 5 day compliance windows and abates at owner expense.
MGO 27.05 declares grass or weeds exceeding 8 inches a public nuisance on improved lots. Owners receive written notice from Building Inspection with a 5 day window to cut or justify an exemption. Unmet orders result in city contractors mowing at a minimum charge near 250 dollars plus administrative fees added to the property tax bill. Madison encourages ecological landscaping and exempts properties with documented native plantings, rain gardens, and prairie restorations when the owner files a natural landscape management plan with the Zoning Administrator (MGO 28.142). Buffer strips adjacent to sidewalks and neighbor property lines must still be maintained. The ordinance does not apply to agricultural zones or recognized conservation easements. Terrace strips between sidewalk and curb are the adjacent owner's responsibility.
MGO 27.05 abatement charges plus 85 dollar inspection fees added to tax roll. Repeat offenders may face escalating citations.
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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