Fitchburg, WI Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)

Fitchburg's nuisance code makes the keeping or harboring of any animal or fowl that habitually disturbs the peace and quiet of a nearby resident a public nuisance offending peace and safety (§ 74-22(10)), one of seventeen conditions listed under that section alongside sidewalk obstructions and unauthorized signs. The broader definition in § 74-19 covers any use of property that continues long enough to substantially annoy, injure or endanger the comfort, health, repose or safety of the public. To act on a chronic barker, a resident files a complaint with any city official or employee; the appropriate department head then inspects the property in his or her reasonable discretion and files a written report with the city administrator, photographing the premises whenever practicable (§ 74-143).

If the inspecting officer confirms the nuisance, the department head serves written notice personally or by certified mail on the owner or occupant and posts a copy on the premises, directing abatement within a specified reasonable time (§ 74-144). If the owner does not comply, the city may abate the nuisance itself and bill the cost as a special charge against the property under Wis. 0627 (§ 74-145). 00 for a repeat offense within a year, plus costs of prosecution, with each day of continued disturbance a separate offense (§ 74-178).