No statewide law
Wisconsin
Last checked October 29, 2026
Wisconsin has no statewide outdoor lighting or dark-sky statute that we could find. Rules are local. Madison's 2022 ordinance (16-2 vote) requires unshielded fixtures over 500 initial lumens to be removed, shielded, or aimed away from neighbors; first citations run about $180. The Town of Amnicon's 2010 ordinance requires downward shielding and bans flashing lights.
Municipal codes
- Madison (opens in new tab): Ordinance approved by the Common Council 16-2 in July 2022: fixtures over 500 initial lumens must be removed, shielded, or aimed so no direct line of sight reaches a point five feet above ground at the property line. Holiday lights are exempt; first citations start around $180.
- Town of Amnicon (opens in new tab): Ordinance 2010-03 (July 8, 2010), Lighting - Dark Skies: exterior lights must be shaded to point downward, may not shine on neighbors or roads, and flashing or rotating lights are banned. After a 30 day notice, the penalty is $25 per day.
Certified dark sky places in Wisconsin
Bringing your own outdoor lighting up to the same standard? See Dark-Sky Friendly Outdoor Lighting.