Dane County, WI Sign Regulations: Holiday Displays (2026)

Holiday and seasonal displays on private residential property are broadly permitted throughout Dane County. Madison, Sun Prairie, Fitchburg, Middleton, Verona, Stoughton, and Monona do not require permits for typical residential decorations. Displays must not extend into the public right-of-way or sidewalks, must preserve traffic sight triangles at intersections (typically 25 feet clear), and cannot create fire or electrical hazards. All outdoor electrical decorations must use UL-listed outdoor-rated equipment and comply with the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code (SPS 316, incorporating NEC Article 590 for temporary wiring). Inflatable displays must be anchored against wind. Amplified music or animated displays must comply with local noise ordinances, typically silent between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Madison MGO §24.04 quiet hours apply. Snow-belt realities mean displays often coexist with snow-plow operations; keep decorations clear of terrace/boulevard areas where plows push snow. HOAs may impose additional duration and aesthetic rules via deed covenants.