Holiday decorations on private residential property are permitted in Dane County with minimal restrictions. No permit needed. Must not obstruct public sidewalks or block driver sight lines. Electrical work must meet WI DSPS UDC SPS 316. Noise rules apply after 10pm.
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.
Obstructing sidewalk or sight triangle: immediate correction required; $50-$200 fine. Electrical hazard: fire marshal may order immediate shutdown. Noise after 10pm: noise-ordinance citation $100-$500. HOA violations: contractual fines under CC&Rs.
Middleton, WI
Middleton regulates amplified music under its general noise ordinance. The Good Neighbor Festival and Hubbard Avenue Diner summer events have special noise p...
Middleton, WI
Middleton considers excessive barking a nuisance. Animal control handles complaints. WI Stat. §174 covers dog regulation statewide.
Middleton, WI
Middleton enforces quiet hours typically 10 PM to 7 AM. Noise disturbances enforceable under WI Stat. §947.01 (Disorderly Conduct).
Middleton, WI
Middleton enforces alternate-side parking November 15 through March 15 and 48-hour maximum street parking year-round. Snow emergencies trigger full parking b...
Middleton, WI
Middleton restricts commercial vehicle parking in residential zones. Weight, size, and signage limits apply. Overnight heavy truck storage prohibited.
Middleton, WI
Middleton requires vehicles parked on improved surfaces. Front lawn parking prohibited. Driveway modifications require permits.
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dane County.
See how Middleton's holiday displays rules stack up against other locations.
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