Free sandbags in Dane County, WI
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Where to get free sandbags in Dane County, WI
City of Madison offers free sand and ready-to-fill sandbags to City residents (not contractors) at seven sites from mid-April to late October, including the Engineering Service Building, 1600 Emil St, Olin Park, 1156 Olin-Turville Ct, and Tenney Park Beach, 1254 Sherman Ave; bring your own shovel.
- City of Madison: sandbag locationscityofmadison.com
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Dane County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Dane County, we email you right away with what to do. We also give you a heads-up a day ahead when NOAA forecasts severe storms or flash-flooding rain.
Want alerts for your exact street instead? Check your address and sign up there.
Is your home in a flood or fire zone?
Type your address and see your flood, wildfire, earthquake and other hazard risks on one map, free. No sign-up needed.
Get official emergency alerts
Dane County's official alert system is Dane County Emergency Alerts. It's free and sends warnings to your phone when a storm, fire or evacuation affects your area.
Before the storm: a quick checklist
- Pick up sandbags early. Supplies run out once a storm is in the forecast.
- Fill bags about halfway and lay them flat, overlapping like bricks, at doorways and the garage door.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and the storm drain in front of your house.
- Move valuables, papers and electronics off the floor.
- Take photos or a video of your rooms and belongings for insurance.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don't drown.
Questions people ask
Where can I get free sandbags in Dane County, WI?
City of Madison offers free sand and ready-to-fill sandbags to City residents (not contractors) at seven sites from mid-April to late October, including the Engineering Service Building, 1600 Emil St, Olin Park, 1156 Olin-Turville Ct, and Tenney Park Beach, 1254 Sherman Ave; bring your own shovel.
How do I get emergency alerts in Dane County, WI?
Sign up for Dane County Emergency Alerts, which is free, and turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone.
How do I know if my home is in a flood zone in Dane County, WI?
Enter your address at mystormplan.com/check to see your FEMA flood zone and other hazards for your exact property, free.
How many sandbags do I need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 bags to build a wall 1 foot high and 20 feet long. Most homes use sandbags to steer water away from doorways and garage doors. Fill bags only about halfway so they lie flat and tight.