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Wisconsin Posting Laws: How to Post Land
Wisconsin has a clear sign formula. The sign must be a set size, carry the name of the person giving notice, and appear in a minimum number of places for the acreage. There are also other ways to give notice. Here is how those pieces work for farm and woodland owners.
What the law asks for on signs
Under 943.13(2)(am), a sign must give an appropriate notice and the name of the person giving notice, followed by 'owner' (title holder) or 'occupant'. The sign must be at least 11 inches square. No letter height is set. Our builder follows these sign rules; read the current statute too.
Spacing and placement
Place signs in at least 2 conspicuous places for every 40 acres to be protected. The statute gives no foot spacing, so a larger tract simply needs more signs. As acreage grows, count by the 40 and place signs where people actually enter, not just where it is convenient to reach.
Other ways to give notice
A sign is not the only route. Notice is also given by personal notification, oral or written. An alternative marking is allowed too: at least one foot long and including, in a contrasting colour, the phrase 'private land' and the owner's name. Proof that signs meeting the statute existed beforehand is prima facie proof of posting.
Entry rules to know
Entry onto enclosed, cultivated or undeveloped land without express or implied consent is a Class B forfeiture under 943.13(1m)(a). Entering undeveloped private land from abutting public land requires notification or posting under (1m)(f). Hunting-specific posting rules were not separately researched, so read the statute if hunters use your land.
Questions about posting land in Wisconsin
How big must a Wisconsin no trespassing sign be?
The statute text we read says the sign must be at least 11 inches square. It must also carry an appropriate notice and the name of the person giving notice, followed by 'owner' or 'occupant'. No letter height is given in the statute text we read.
How many signs does Wisconsin require?
At least 2 conspicuous places for every 40 acres to be protected, according to the statute. There is no foot spacing. Bigger tracts need more signs, so count by the acre and place them where visitors enter.
Can I give notice in Wisconsin without a sign?
Yes. The statute text we read says notice can also be given by personal notification, oral or written. An alternative marking at least one foot long, with 'private land' and the owner's name in a contrasting colour, is also described.
This guide explains the law in plain words; it is not legal advice. We read the statute text on 2026-10-24. Laws change: check the current text here or ask your county or state wildlife agency.