Sun Prairie, WI Short-Term Rentals: Noise Rules (2026)

The City of Sun Prairie confirms in its Frequently Asked Questions that the city does not currently have a short-term rental use or license defined by city ordinance, so STR operators must follow generally applicable nuisance and noise rules instead. Chapter 8.32 of the Sun Prairie Municipal Code governs noise. Section 8.32.010 makes it unlawful for any person to make, continue or cause to be made any loud and unnecessary noise. Section 8.32.020(B) specifically targets radios, phonographs and similar sound-reproducing devices: operating any such device between ten p.m. and seven a.m. in a manner so as to be plainly audible at the property line is prima facie evidence of a violation. Section 8.32.030(A)(1) sets numeric limits for stationary noise sources measured at the property line - 60 dB daytime and 50 dB nighttime in residential zones, 70 dB day and night in commercial zones, and 75 dB day and night in all other zones - and Section 8.32.030(A)(2) treats a noise source that exceeds ambient by 5 dB in any octave band as excessive. Section 8.32.030(D) restricts lawnmowers, chainsaws, powered garden equipment and other nonconstruction maintenance equipment to operation between seven a.m. and nine p.m. unless within the dB limits at the property line, which constrains evening yard work by guests. Section 8.32.020(G) limits construction-type noise to seven a.m. to ten p.m. on weekdays, and Section 8.32.030(B) caps construction equipment at 80 dB(A) at the property line between seven a.m. and seven p.m. Section 8.32.040 requires a permit from the chief of police for any loudspeaker or amplifying device on streets or in parks, and bars its use before nine a.m. or after nine p.m. Wisconsin Statute 66.1014 prevents Sun Prairie from prohibiting rentals of seven consecutive days or longer but expressly preserves the city's authority to enforce noise ordinances against STR operators and their guests.