Commercial and industrial noise in Madison is regulated by MGO Chapter 24 and WI DNR NR 204 standards. Establishments must keep noise at property lines within reasonable limits, especially adjacent to residential zones.
MGO Chapter 24 sets the general standard that noise from commercial establishments must not unreasonably disturb nearby residents. Industrial and larger commercial sites are additionally subject to WI DNR NR 204 noise emission standards. Bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues must manage patron noise, patio amplified sound, and HVAC equipment noise. Mixed-use buildings downtown and along East Washington must carefully manage rooftop equipment. Loading dock operations at retail and warehouse facilities are typically limited to 7 AM to 9 PM. Garbage pickup at commercial properties adjacent to residential zones is also subject to daytime limits. Building Inspection handles mechanical and chronic commercial cases; Police handle acute entertainment-venue complaints. Noise variances through the City Clerk allow one-time exceedances for events.
Citations 187 to 500 dollars. Liquor license review possible for chronic bar violations.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Madison's industrial noise rules stack up against other locations.
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