Burlington, WI Parking Rules: Curb Color Rules (2026)

Chapter 155 of the Code of the City of Burlington sets the physical standard behind every marked curb: fire lanes must stay unobstructed at a minimum width of 24 feet, with the road edge nearest the building at least 10 feet away, widening to 26 feet where a multifamily building is two or more stories. Lanes must reach at least two sides of buildings up to 200 feet long and all four sides beyond that, and any dead-end lane over 150 feet needs a 90-foot turnaround.

Before a building permit issues, the designated fire access roads and lanes must be submitted and conditionally approved, and the Fire Chief or Fire Inspector can order additional lanes at any shopping center, school or business where restricted access creates a hazard. The marking itself, freestanding signs plus painted curbs, sidewalks and traffic surfaces reading "Fire Lane No Parking" in contrasting colors, is what puts drivers on notice; the Fire Department sets the exact size and spacing. Once painted, the lane is off-limits to parking or any other obstruction.

Owners and occupants must keep the lane clear and plow it in winter. A citation issues under the City's general citation authority, § 155-54, and the chapter's penalty clause, § 155-55A, treats each 24-hour span of a continuing violation as a separate offense, on top of the towing exposure that attaches automatically once a vehicle sits in the lane for a full day.