Jaywalking, Littering, and Other Laws You Break Every Day Without Realizing It in Wisconsin

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Jaywalking, Littering, and Other Laws You Break Every Day Without Realizing It in Wisconsin

No, jaywalking and littering are regulated in Wisconsin but rarely lead to serious enforcement for minor, everyday instances.

Jaywalking Rules

Wisconsin Statute 346.38 requires pedestrians to use crosswalks where available and obey signals, with violations classified as forfeitures (fines). First offenses typically draw warnings or $20–$50 fines, escalating to $100+ for repeats if they endanger traffic. Enforcement prioritizes safety risks over casual crossings.

Littering Penalties

Under Wis. Stat. 287.11, littering carries civil forfeitures starting at $50 for small amounts, up to $1,000 or 30 days jail for intentional dumping over 100 pounds. Local ordinances in cities like Milwaukee add $100–$500 fines, but minor tosses (e.g., a wrapper) often get ignored unless witnessed.​

Other Daily Infractions

Common overlooked laws include open intoxicants in vehicles (346.352, $200+ fine), left-lane hogging (346.14(2), $30–$300), or sidewalk bicycles (346.46, $20–$100). These are civil, not criminal, absent harm.

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