Madison MGO §31.043 and Dane County sign codes allow political signs on private property. First Amendment and Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015) bar content-based rules. WI §12.04 prohibits signs on public property. Typical limit 32 sq ft residential. Removal within 7 days post-election customary.
Political signs enjoy strong First Amendment protection. Madison General Ordinance §31.043 (Signs in Residential Districts) and Dane County Ch. 10 zoning allow temporary noncommercial signs, including political signs, on private residential property up to 6 square feet (typical) or larger in non-residential zones. After Reed v. Town of Gilbert (576 U.S. 155, 2015), content-based distinctions (e.g., treating political signs differently from other temporary signs) are subject to strict scrutiny and generally unenforceable. Wisconsin Statute §12.04 prohibits placing any political sign on public property, utility poles, or within the highway right-of-way. Signs must not obstruct traffic sight triangles (typically 25 feet from intersections). Durational limits tied solely to election dates are constitutionally suspect; Madison has revised its code to avoid election-only restrictions. HOAs may not prohibit political signs on owned lots per general First Amendment protections against state actors, but private deed covenants may apply.
Sign in public right-of-way: removal by city, forfeiture $25-$100 under MGO §31.05. Oversized sign: notice to reduce. Obstructing sight triangle: immediate removal and $50-$200 fine. Signs on utility poles: removal without notice.
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 political signs rules stack up against other locations.
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