Wisconsin Statute 823.08 protects established agricultural operations from nuisance lawsuits by neighbors, requiring courts to dismiss claims unless the farm substantially threatens public health or safety.
Wis. Stat. 823.08, the Wisconsin Right to Farm Law, bars nuisance actions against any agricultural use or practice if the operation existed before the complaining party's interest in the property and is conducted using generally accepted practices. Plaintiffs must prove that the agricultural activity substantially threatens public health or safety in order to overcome the statutory protection. Courts dismissing claims under 823.08 may award costs and reasonable attorney fees to the prevailing farm operator. The law applies to crop production, livestock, dairy, poultry, aquaculture, and related processing facilities. Nonconforming changes after a neighbor moves in can lose protection if they materially expand the operation.
Plaintiffs filing prohibited nuisance suits may be ordered to pay the farm's attorney fees and costs. Farm operators can lose protection if they fail to follow generally accepted practices or engage in conduct that substantially threatens public health or safety.
Wausau, WI
Wausau considers excessive barking a nuisance. Animal control handles complaints. WI Stat. §174 covers dog regulation statewide.
Wausau, WI
Wausau enforces quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. The paper mill city along the Wisconsin River manages industrial noise from Verso and other mills under Wisco...
Wausau, WI
Wausau regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound amplification permits available for events. WI Stat. §947.01 applies.
Wausau, WI
Wausau requires vehicles parked on improved surfaces. Front lawn parking prohibited. Driveway modifications require permits.
Wausau, WI
Wausau restricts commercial vehicle parking in residential zones. Weight, size, and signage limits apply. Overnight heavy truck storage prohibited.
Wausau, WI
Wausau enforces a strict winter parking ban from November 1 through April 1. Alternate-side parking is required during snow events. With over 50 inches of an...
See how Wausau's farm nuisance protection rules stack up against other locations.
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