LegalCals

Wisconsin Eviction Rules

Official notice periods, filing timelines, and legal citations for this state.

Notice Requirements

Nonpayment of Rent
5 days (month-to-month or lease < 1 year); 30 days (lease > 1 year)
Lease Violation
5 days (14 days with no cure if repeat within 1 year; 30 days for leases > 1 year)
When can the landlord file?
Landlord may file after the notice period expires without cure or payment.
Tenant answer deadline
Tenant typically appears at the hearing; written answers may be filed.
Hearing timeline
Typically 2–4 weeks after filing, depending on court schedule.
Lockout / physical eviction
Only the sheriff may execute the writ of restitution after a court judgment.

Eviction Process Timeline

  1. Notice Period (Nonpayment)

    5 days (month-to-month or lease < 1 year); 30 days (lease > 1 year)

  2. Notice Period (Lease Violation)

    5 days (14 days with no cure if repeat within 1 year; 30 days for leases > 1 year)

  3. Landlord Can File

    Landlord may file after the notice period expires without cure or payment.

  4. Tenant Answer Deadline

    Tenant typically appears at the hearing; written answers may be filed.

  5. Hearing Timeline

    Typically 2–4 weeks after filing, depending on court schedule.

  6. Lockout / Physical Eviction

    Only the sheriff may execute the writ of restitution after a court judgment.

Legal Citations

  • Wis. Stat. § 704.17