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Madison, WI Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Downtown Design Guide (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governs
Minor facade changes in Downtown Core (DC) district
Guideline document
"Downtown Urban Design Guidelines" (Res. #12-00949)
Reviewer
Secretary of the Urban Design Commission
Governing section
MGO § 33.24(4)(g)3
Minor remodel fee
$150
Major/new construction fee
$350

Summary

Minor building facade changes in Madison's Downtown Core (DC) zoning district are reviewed against the city's "Downtown Urban Design Guidelines," established by Common Council Resolution #12-00949 and administered by the Secretary of the Urban Design Commission under MGO § 33.24(4)(g)3, rather than requiring a full Urban Design Commission hearing.

3.Minor Facade Alterations in DC Downtown Core District. The Secretary shall perform the duties for review and approval of applications for minor building facade changes in the DC district found in the "Downtown Urban Design Guidelines" established by Resolution #12-00949.

View official code

Full Breakdown

24 establishes the Urban Design Commission (UDC) and, in subsection (4)(g), spells out the duties of the Commission's Secretary: a staff member of the Department of Planning and Community and Economic Development. The Secretary can administratively approve certain building additions, minor facade alterations, or minor construction within Urban Design Districts if the work complies with applicable district criteria, and can approve minor alterations to plans the full UDC already approved. 13(9), which draw on the same Downtown Urban Design Guidelines, and report a recommendation to the Zoning Administrator.

24(7)(b), including for Comprehensive Design Review. 24(6): $350 for new construction or major exterior remodeling in any Urban Design District, and $150 for minor exterior remodeling in an Urban Design District or the DC District, both payable to the City Treasurer; sign-review fees follow Chapter 31's own fee schedule.

Violations & Fines

Undertaking new construction, a major exterior remodel, or a facade change in the Downtown Core or another Urban Design District without the required Secretary or full Urban Design Commission approval, or without paying the applicable $150/$350 fee under MGO § 33.24(6), blocks permit issuance; sign work reviewed under the same Downtown Urban Design Guidelines that also violates Chapter 31's sign rules carries the separate § 31.19 forfeiture of $30 to $500 per day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What design standards apply to a facade change in downtown Madison?
In the Downtown Core (DC) zoning district, MGO § 33.24(4)(g)3 directs the Secretary of the Urban Design Commission to review minor building facade changes against the "Downtown Urban Design Guidelines," a document established by Common Council Resolution #12-00949.
Does every downtown storefront change need a full Urban Design Commission hearing?
Not necessarily. Minor facade alterations and minor construction within Urban Design Districts can be administratively approved by the Secretary of the UDC under MGO § 33.24(4)(g)1–3 if they comply with the applicable design guidelines, rather than going before the full Commission.
How much does design review cost in downtown Madison?
Under MGO § 33.24(6), a minor exterior remodel in an Urban Design District or the DC District carries a $150 fee, while new construction or major exterior remodeling in an Urban Design District costs $350, both payable to the City Treasurer.
Do the downtown guidelines also cover sign permits?
Yes. MGO § 33.24(4)(g)4 gives the Secretary authority to review sign permit applications in the DC and Urban Mixed-Use districts using the criteria in Section 31.13(9), which includes the Downtown Urban Design Guidelines, and to recommend approval or denial to the Zoning Administrator.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Madison

Fence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsDensity Bonus LawSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Groomer RulesSome Restrictions

All Madison rules

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