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Dodge County, WI Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Amplified music rules in Dodge County, WI, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.

Key Facts

Governing section
Dodge County Code § 19.04(9)(f)
Scope
Dodge County Park System only
Exceptions
park-sponsored events; Department approval
Cash deposit
$50.00 ($200.50 total with fees)
Additional penalty
park ban up to 1 year
Enforcing agency
Sheriff / Land Resources and Parks Dept.

Summary

Dodge County bars using a sound amplification device, sound truck, loudspeaker, generator or other device that produces excessive, loud or unusual noise anywhere in the county park system, except at park-sponsored events or with the Land Resources and Parks Department's prior approval.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Dodge County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Using any sound amplification device, sound truck, loudspeaker, generator or other device that produces excessive, loud or unusual noises, except for park-sponsored events or unless with prior Department approval.

View official code

Full Breakdown

02 lists as Astico, Derge, Harnischfeger, Ledge and Nitschke Mounds Parks, the Wild Goose State Trail, the Glacial River Trail, the Gold Star Memorial Trail, and the county's snowmobile and ATV trails. The ban has two built-in exceptions: park-sponsored events, and any use with prior approval from the Dodge County Land Resources and Parks Department. 03's definitions before setting up. 08, which also lets other municipal, county or state officers act as Dodge County's enforcement agent inside a park. 07(2), which bars loud, disturbing or unnecessary noise without singling out amplification equipment.

Violations & Fines

Violating any Chapter 19 park regulation, including § 19.04(9)(f), can result in revocation of park permits and being barred from the park system for up to one year under § 19.07(1). The county's citation schedule sets a $50.00 cash deposit for excessive-noise violations under § 19.04(9)(f), totaling $200.50 with court costs, the 26% penalty surcharge and other statutory fees under § 30.04(4). Unpaid forfeitures follow the general penalty scheme in § 30.04(1), with jail exposure of up to 90 days for a first offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a speaker or PA system to a Dodge County park?
Only with prior approval. Section 19.04(9)(f) bans sound amplification devices, sound trucks, loudspeakers and generators that produce excessive, loud or unusual noise in county parks and trails, unless the use is part of a park-sponsored event or has been approved in advance by the Land Resources and Parks Department.
Does this county rule apply to loud music at my house?
No. Section 19.04(9)(f) only governs Dodge County parks and trails such as Astico, Derge, Ledge and Nitschke Mounds. Amplified music on private property elsewhere in the unincorporated county falls instead under the general noise clause, § 9.07(2).
What is the penalty for unapproved amplified sound in a Dodge County park?
The citation schedule sets a $50.00 deposit, totaling $200.50 with fees, and the county can also revoke existing park permits or bar the violator from the park system for up to one year under § 19.07(1).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Dodge County

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Dog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard FiresSome RestrictionsBarking DogsSome RestrictionsVehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: FireworksSignificant RestrictionsTrash & Recycling: Illegal DumpingSome Restrictions

All Dodge County rules

Compare Dodge County to another location·View the Wisconsin noise ordinances overview

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