Slow-No-Wake Zones in Dane County

Find information on any current restrictions related to high water levels.

The slow-no-wake requirements outlined below are in place under normal conditions.

Chapter 72 of the Dane County Code of Ordinances currently requires that motorized watercraft travel no faster than "slow-no-wake" speed within 200 feet from the shores of Lakes Mendota, Monona, Waubesa and Kegonsa.

In addition, the entire surface of Lake Mendota is a slow-no-wake zone from sunset to midnight on the date when the Rhythm and Booms fireworks display is held at Warner Park in the City of Madison.

"Slow-no-wake" speed means the minimum speed at which a motorized watercraft is able to move and maintain adequate steerage control.

• Slow No Wake Poster in PDF format

Proposed Change to Emergency Slow-no-wake Designations.

Several County Board Supervisors have proposed to amend Ch. 72 of the Dane County Ordinances to automatically designate a slow-no-wake zone on the Yahara lakes under certain high water conditions. This proposal has been referred to the Lakes and Watershed Commission and other County Board committees for their review. To read the Supervisors' proposal, look for "OA 14, 2010-11, Amending Ch. 72 of the Dane County Code of Ordinances, Regarding Slow-No-Wake Restrictions on Yahara Lakes" under "Legistlative Text" on the County Board Supervisors page.

To follow the Dane County Lakes & Watershed Commission and its Lake Levels/In-lake/Invasives Subcommittee review of this proposal, read meeting agendas and minutes.