Our Blog

Articles and guides to help you understand local noise laws and navigate common neighborhood issues.

February 5, 2026

Drones Hovering Over My Yard: Privacy, Noise, and FAA Rules

A drone is buzzing over your pool. Is it legal? We break down FAA regulations, noise ordinances, and privacy laws regarding neighbor's drones.

February 4, 2026

Pickleball Noise: Why the 'Pop' is Driving Neighbors Crazy (And What to Do)

Pickleball is America's fastest growing sport, and its loudest. We explain the unique acoustics of the pickleball 'pop' and the emerging laws regulating court noise.

February 3, 2026

Can't Wear Earplugs? Why Sleep Headphones Are the Best Alternative

If foam earplugs hurt your ears or fall out, sleep headphones (headbands) might be the solution. We review how they work for blocking snoring and street noise.

February 2, 2026

Living the Same Noise Nightmare Every Day: Documenting Recurring Disturbances

Does your neighbor make the exact same noise at the exact same time every day? Learn why 'recurring' noise is legally different from a one-off event.

February 1, 2026

Super Bowl Party Noise: How to Host Without Fines

The big game brings big noise. From touchdown cheers to halftime shows, here is how to host a Super Bowl party that doesn't end with a police visit.

January 31, 2026

The 'Plainly Audible' Standard: When Your Music Becomes Illegal

Forget decibels. Many police departments use the 'Plainly Audible' test to issue tickets. We explain exactly what this legal term means for your car stereo or home speakers.

January 30, 2026

Do Soundproof Curtains Actually Work? A Realistic Review

Can a piece of fabric really stop street noise? We break down the physics of acoustic curtains—what they can do, and more importantly, what they can't.

January 29, 2026

Roommate Noise Agreements: How to Write a Contract for Quiet Hours

The noise is coming from inside the house! How to draft a 'Roommate Agreement' that sets clear boundaries for TV volume, guests, and quiet times.

January 28, 2026

My Neighbor's Washing Machine Shakes My Floor: Is It a Noise Violation?

The spin cycle sounds like a helicopter landing in your living room. We explain the difference between normal appliance noise and actionable maintenance issues.

January 27, 2026

Draft Stoppers & Door Sweeps: The $10 Fix for Hallway Noise

Can hearing your neighbors in the hallway be fixed for ten bucks? Yes. We explain why the gap under your door is the biggest acoustic weak point in your apartment.

January 26, 2026

Decoupling Explained: The Only Way to Stop Subwoofer Noise

Why turning down the volume isn't enough. A technical guide to 'decoupling' your subwoofer to stop bass from traveling through floors.

January 25, 2026

Parrots, Chickens, and Roosters: Noise Laws for Exotic Pets

Dogs aren't the only loud pets. We cover the specific ordinances regulating backyard chickens, squawking parrots, and other exotic animal noise.

January 24, 2026

The 'Tennis Shoes in the Dryer' Problem: Appliance Impact Noise

Thump. Thump. Thump. Why drying shoes is the ultimate apartment sin, and how to manage appliance vibration.

January 23, 2026

Moving Day Etiquette: Minimizing Noise in Hallways and Elevators

Moving is stressful and loud. Learn the rules for moving hours, elevator reservation, and how to avoid starting off on the wrong foot with new neighbors.

January 22, 2026

The Boy Who Cried Wolf: Laws Regarding Chronic False Car Alarms

A car alarm that goes off every night isn't security; it's a nuisance. Learn how cities regulate malfunctioning alarms and what you can do.

January 21, 2026

Night Shift Workers: Do You Have a Right to Daytime Silence?

The world operates on a 9-to-5 schedule, but you don't. We explain the legal reality for night shift workers dealing with daytime lawnmowers and construction.

January 20, 2026

The Apartment Singer's Guide: Practicing Vocals Without Eviction

You have an audition, but you also have neighbors. Learn the 'plainly audible' rules for vocal practice and how to sing considerately.

January 19, 2026

Clanking Pipes and Hissing Radiators: Tenant Rights for Heating Noise

Winter brings the 'steam hammer.' If your heating system sounds like a construction site, is your landlord required to fix it?

January 18, 2026

The Thud of the Driveway: Basketball Hoop Noise Regulations

The rhythmic thump of a basketball can drive neighbors crazy. We look at driveway sports laws and sound-dampening hoops.

January 17, 2026

Weekend Morning Chores: Is 8 AM Too Early for Laundry?

The washer is spinning and the vacuum is roaring. We analyze the etiquette and laws regarding household appliance noise on Saturday mornings.

January 16, 2026

Noise Canceling Headphones vs. Earplugs: Which is Better for Sleeping?

Trying to block out a snoring partner or street traffic? We compare Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) tech against passive earplugs for sleep quality.

January 15, 2026

Speech Privacy: Using White Noise Machines for Home Office Confidentiality

Working from home involves sensitive calls. Learn how to use sound masking to ensure your neighbors can't hear your private meetings.

January 14, 2026

The Squeaky Floor Standoff: Is It the Tenant's Fault or the Landlord's?

Every step is a creak. Is a squeaky floor a noise violation by the upstairs neighbor, or a maintenance issue for the landlord? We settle the debate.

January 13, 2026

Thin Walls and Privacy: Can I Break My Lease If I Can Hear Everything?

Living in an apartment with paper-thin walls can feel like a lack of privacy. We explore if poor sound insulation is legal grounds to break a lease.

January 12, 2026

Infrasound: The Noise You Feel But Can't Hear

A low-frequency hum is vibrating your house, but you can't hear it? We explain infrasound, Low Frequency Noise (LFN), and how to identify the source.

January 11, 2026

Clock Towers vs. Church Bells: Different Rules for Different Chimes?

Does the hourly chime of a municipal clock tower have the same legal protection as a church bell? We explore the nuances of public timekeeping noise.

January 10, 2026

Sanding Floors: Noise Rules for Weekend DIY Refinishing

Refinishing floors involves heavy sanders that vibrate the entire building. Learn the specific rules for high-impact DIY projects in apartments and condos.

January 9, 2026

Karaoke Bars vs. Residential Zones: Who Wins?

A new karaoke bar opened downstairs and the bass is shaking your bed. We look at commercial zoning laws and soundproofing requirements for nightlife venues.

January 8, 2026

Dropping Weights: Impact Noise Rules for Apartment Gyms

The 'New Year, New Me' crowd is hitting the apartment gym, but the sound of dropping deadlifts is waking you up. Here is how to handle gym noise.

January 7, 2026

Wind Chimes in Winter: Soothing Sound or Noise Violation?

Winter winds can turn a pleasant wind chime into a 24/7 clatter. We explain when your neighbor's chimes cross the legal line into nuisance territory.

January 6, 2026

The Morning Grind: Laws Regarding School Bus Idling and Noise

School is back in session, and the bus is idling outside your window at 6:45 AM. We break down the specific laws limiting bus idling in residential areas.

January 5, 2026

The Science of Snow Muffling: Why It's Quiet After a Storm

Ever notice how the world seems hushed after a heavy snowfall? We explain the acoustic physics behind the 'snow silence' phenomenon.

January 4, 2026

Sleep Training in the New Year: Cry It Out vs. Neighbors

You're trying to get the baby on a schedule, but the crying is loud. How to navigate sleep training when you share walls with neighbors.

January 3, 2026

Jump Rope Jitters: High-Impact Exercise Noise in Apartments

HIIT and jump rope workouts are great for health but terrible for downstairs neighbors. Here is how to sweat without causing an earthquake.

January 2, 2026

Taking Down the Lights: Ladder Safety and Noise Etiquette

The holidays are over. As you pack away the decorations, learn how to avoid the clatter of ladders and plastic bins early on a weekend morning.

January 1, 2026

The Morning After: Coping with Cleanup Noise on New Year's Day

The party is over, but the recycling truck is coming for the glass bottles. Navigating the noise of cleanup when the whole neighborhood is recovering.

December 31, 2025

The Midnight Exception: Do Noise Laws Apply at 12:00 AM?

The ball drops and the noise erupts. We look at how law enforcement handles the specific minute of midnight on New Year's Eve.

December 30, 2025

Balcony Toasts: Why Sound Carries Further on New Year's Eve

Stepping outside for a midnight toast? Learn why your voice travels differently from a balcony and how to keep your celebration private.

December 29, 2025

The Thud of Resolutions: Noise Rules for Treadmills and Weights

New home gym gear means new noise issues. How to use your treadmill or weights without becoming the 'thumping' neighbor.

December 28, 2025

Soundproofing Your Nursery: Protecting Baby's Sleep During New Year's Fireworks

New Year's Eve is coming, and it's loud. Here are specific, safe soundproofing strategies to keep your nursery quiet and help your baby sleep through the midnight boom.

December 27, 2025

Taking the Party Outside: Fire Pits, Patios, and Winter Noise Rules

Gathering around a fire pit is a holiday tradition, but sound travels further in cold air. We explain the science of winter acoustics and the rules for outdoor gatherings.

December 26, 2025

The 'Gift Receipt' for Noise: Negotiating Rules for New Musical Instruments

So the kids got a drum set yesterday. Now what? Learn how to establish 'practice contracts' with your family and neighbors to keep the peace without returning the gift.

December 25, 2025

Christmas Morning Noise: Is 6 AM 'Unreasonable' for Excited Kids?

It's 6 AM and the kids are screaming with joy. Is it a noise violation? We look at how the 'reasonable person' standard applies to holiday mornings.

December 24, 2025

Church Bells and Call to Prayer: The Specifics of Religious Noise Exemptions

Religious sounds like church bells or calls to prayer often have special protections under the First Amendment and local ordinances. We explore the balance between religious freedom and noise control.

December 23, 2025

The Vibration of Video Games: Gaming Chairs, Headsets, and Floor Noise

New gaming gear is a popular gift, but rumble seats and shouting gamers can be a nightmare for neighbors. Here is how to game quietly.

December 22, 2025

Holiday Pet Sitting: Managing Noise When You're Watching Someone Else's Dog

Watching a friend's dog for the holidays? A strange environment often leads to separation anxiety and barking. Here is how to prevent a noise complaint while pet sitting.

December 21, 2025

The 'Noisy Guest' Clause: Are You Liable for Your Visitors' Noise?

Your name is on the lease, but your cousin is the one yelling on the balcony. We explain tenant liability for guest behavior and how to protect yourself.

December 20, 2025

Guest Management: Handling Parking and Hallway Noise for Holiday Parties

The loudest part of a party often happens outside your front door. Learn how to manage guest arrivals, departures, and street parking to minimize neighbor complaints.

December 19, 2025

Kitchen Commotion: Managing Noise from Holiday Baking and Side Hustles

From industrial mixers to constant oven fans, holiday side businesses can be surprisingly loud. We look at the noise rules for residential home occupations.

December 18, 2025

Night Mode 101: How to Watch Movies Late Without Waking the Neighbors

A technical guide to 'Night Mode' and Dynamic Range Compression (DRC). Learn how to hear every whisper without sharing the explosions with the apartment next door.

December 17, 2025

The Hum of the Holidays: Dealing with Inflatable Fan Noise

Giant lawn inflatables bring joy, but their constant mechanical hum can violate nighttime decibel limits. Learn the rules for seasonal mechanical noise.

December 16, 2025

Holiday Movie Marathons: Managing Subwoofer Bass for 'Die Hard'

Action movies have lots of bass. Learn how to enjoy your holiday movie marathon without shaking your neighbor's walls or violating lease agreements.

December 15, 2025

Barking at the Amazon Driver: Curbing Holiday Delivery Dog Noise

With the surge in holiday package deliveries comes a surge in barking. Here is how to manage your dog's 'delivery alert' noise to keep the peace with neighbors.

December 14, 2025

The 'Silent Night' Clause: Do Noise Laws Change on Christmas Eve?

New Year's Eve often has legal exemptions for noise, but what about Christmas? We explain whether the laws relax for holiday parties or if 'Silent Night' is legally enforceable.

December 13, 2025

Caroling: Joyful Noise or Public Nuisance? What the Law Says

Planning to spread some holiday cheer? Before you gather the choir, learn the rules regarding street performing, unamplified singing, and door-to-door caroling.

December 12, 2025

Buying Loud Gifts? A Noise Ordinance Guide for Drums and Karaoke Machines

Thinking of gifting a drum set or a karaoke machine this holiday? Read this first to ensure your generous gift doesn't turn into a noise violation for the recipient.

December 11, 2025

New Year's Eve Noise Laws: How Late Can the Party Go?

New Year's Eve is the loudest night of the year. We explain the specific ordinance exceptions for NYE, fireworks rules, and how to prepare your pets and home.

December 10, 2025

Heat Pump Noise: Handling the Winter Hum from Your Neighbor's Unit

Heat pumps work harder in freezing temps, often creating a loud, vibrating hum. Learn about 'tonal noise' regulations and how to address mechanical noise issues.

December 9, 2025

Hosting for the Holidays? How to Manage Noise in a Thin-Walled Apartment

Family visits mean more footsteps, laughter, and potential conflict with neighbors. Here are specific tips for apartment dwellers hosting guests this season.

December 8, 2025

Snow Plows at 3 AM: Rules for Private Contractors vs. City Trucks

City plows have immunity, but what about the private guy clearing the condo lot at 3 AM? We break down the regulations for commercial snow removal services.

December 7, 2025

The Morning Rumble: Is It Legal to Idle Your Car for 20 Minutes?

Remote starters are convenient in the cold, but a car idling at 6 AM can be a major nuisance. We explain anti-idling laws and noise rules for warming up vehicles.

December 6, 2025

Why Your Upstairs Neighbor Sounds Louder in Winter (And How to Cope)

Does it feel like the people above you suddenly started bowling? Winter 'cabin fever' increases indoor impact noise. Here is why it happens and how to handle it.

December 5, 2025

Generator Noise Rules: Can I Run a Backup Generator All Night?

Winter storms bring power outages and the roar of backup generators. We explain the decibel limits, setbacks, and etiquette for running power equipment during an outage.

December 4, 2025

Porch Pirates and Sirens: Laws Regarding Security Camera Alarms

To stop package theft, many homeowners are enabling the 'siren' feature on their Ring or Eufy cameras. But when do these deterrents become a noise violation?

December 3, 2025

Barking Dogs in Winter: Why It Sounds Louder and What the Law Says

Sound travels differently in cold air, making barking dogs a major winter nuisance. We explain the science, the animal welfare laws, and how to handle it.

December 2, 2025

Snow Blower Noise Rules: How Early Is Too Early?

Snow removal is a safety necessity, but 5 AM is early. Learn about the specific exemptions for snow blowers in noise ordinances and the etiquette of clearing your driveway.

December 1, 2025

The 'Noise Log' Template: A Free Tool to Document Complaints

Your memory isn't enough evidence. We provide a free, interactive noise log tool that saves your data and generates a professional report for your landlord or the police.

November 30, 2025

Sunday Quiet Laws: Why You Can't Mow Your Lawn at 8 AM Today

Sunday mornings have special status in many municipal codes. We explain why weekend quiet hours are longer and what specific restrictions apply to Sundays.

November 29, 2025

Ladder Safety and Noise: Can I Hammer and Drill on the Weekend?

Planning a DIY project this Saturday? Before you fire up the power saw, learn the difference between homeowner repairs and professional construction hours.

November 28, 2025

Jingle Bell Rock... All Night Long? Rules for Outdoor Holiday Decorations and Music

From singing Santas to inflatable fan compressors, holiday cheer can get loud. Here is the etiquette and legal reality of outdoor holiday decorations.

November 27, 2025

Thanksgiving Noise Etiquette: How to Feast Without Fighting

Thanksgiving brings football, family, and fun—but also plenty of noise. Here are tips for hosting a considerate holiday gathering that keeps the neighbors happy.

November 26, 2025

White Noise Machine vs. Fan: Which Blocks Neighbor Noise Better?

Trying to drown out a noisy neighbor to get some sleep? We compare the effectiveness of mechanical fans versus dedicated white noise machines for sound masking.

November 25, 2025

The '80% Rule': Why Your Lease Requires Rugs

If you live in an apartment with hardwood floors, your lease likely requires you to cover them with rugs. We explain why this rule exists and how it prevents neighbor disputes.

November 24, 2025

How to Spot a Noisy Neighborhood Before You Move In

Don't get stuck with a lease in a loud area. Use these detective skills to identify potential noise issues like traffic, flight paths, and rowdy neighbors before you sign.

November 23, 2025

How to Measure Noise Levels for a Complaint (The Right Way)

Trying to prove a neighbor is too loud? A subjective complaint isn't enough. Learn how to measure decibels (dB) correctly using your phone or a meter to build a solid case.

November 22, 2025

Who Do I Actually Call? 311, 911, or the Non-Emergency Line?

Confused about who to call for a noise complaint? We break down the difference between 311, the police non-emergency line, and 911, and when to use each.

November 21, 2025

Can I Break My Lease Due to Noise? A Renter's Guide to Constructive Eviction

When noise makes your apartment unlivable and your landlord won't help, you may have grounds to break your lease without penalty. Learn about the legal concept of 'constructive eviction'.

November 20, 2025

Living Above the Noise: Rights for Residents in Mixed-Use Buildings

Living above a shop, bar, or restaurant offers great convenience, but unique noise challenges. Learn about your rights as a resident in a mixed-use zone.

November 19, 2025

The 5 AM Wake-Up Call: Rules for Garbage Truck Noise

The crash of dumpsters and the beep of reversing trucks can ruin your morning sleep. Learn the specific rules for trash collection hours and how to report violations.

November 18, 2025

Can I Sue My Neighbor for Noise? A Guide to Small Claims Court

When police and landlords fail, legal action might be your last resort. Learn about suing for 'private nuisance' in small claims court and what evidence you need.

November 17, 2025

What Time Do You Have to Be Quiet in a Neighborhood?

A straightforward guide to understanding and finding the specific quiet hours in your neighborhood, and what 'unreasonable noise' means during the daytime.

November 16, 2025

'Right to Farm' vs. Your Right to Quiet: Navigating Noise in Rural Areas

Moved to the country for peace and quiet, only to be woken by a 5 AM tractor? We explain 'Right to Farm' laws and what they mean for noise complaints about agricultural operations.

November 15, 2025

My Neighbor is a Content Creator: Dealing with Noise from Streaming and Vlogging

Loud reactions, constant talking, and late-night gaming sessions are the new work-from-home noise. This guide helps you address disruptions from a neighboring streamer or vlogger.

November 14, 2025

The New 'Quiet Hours': Navigating Noise When You Work From Home

A guide for remote workers on how to handle disruptive daytime noise from neighbors. Learn how ordinances apply during the day and get practical tips for negotiating for a quieter work environment.

November 13, 2025

The Bass That Shakes Your Walls: What to Do When Police Don't Come for Noise

It's 1 AM, your house is vibrating from a neighbor's bass, and the non-emergency line is ringing unanswered. Here's a step-by-step guide on what to do when your first calls for help fail.

November 12, 2025

When Noise Becomes Harassment: Understanding Your Legal Options

Sometimes, excessive noise isn't just inconsiderate—it's intentional and targeted. This guide explains when noise crosses the line into legal harassment and what steps you can take.

November 11, 2025

My Neighbor's Garage Band: A Guide to Handling Rehearsal Noise

The endless riffs and drum solos from a neighbor's band practice can be a unique challenge. Learn about specific rules and creative solutions for this loud hobby.

November 10, 2025

Boom in the Night: A Guide to Dealing with Illegal Fireworks Noise

From startling booms to the constant crackle, illegal fireworks are a major neighborhood nuisance. Learn about the laws, the dangers, and the most effective way to report the issue.

November 9, 2025

The Hum That Never Stops: How to Deal with Noise from HVAC and AC Units

A constant hum from a neighbor's air conditioner or a building's HVAC system can be maddening. This guide covers the specific rules that apply to mechanical noise and the steps to get it fixed.

November 8, 2025

Surviving the Reno: A Guide to Handling Noise from Your Neighbor's Home Renovation

A practical guide for dealing with the noise from a neighbor's home improvement project. Learn about the rules for construction hours and what to do when the noise becomes a nuisance.

November 7, 2025

Pool Parties and Midnight Laundry: A Guide to Noise in Shared Apartment Amenities

Shared amenities like pools, gyms, and laundry rooms are great perks, but they can also be sources of noise. Learn the rules and who to contact when things get too loud.

November 6, 2025

Early Morning Deliveries and Late-Night Pickups: Navigating Noise from Delivery Trucks

The convenience of modern e-commerce can come with an early-morning wake-up call. Learn about the rules for commercial vehicles and the best way to report nuisance delivery noise.

November 5, 2025

Revving Engines and Loud Stereos: A Guide to Dealing with Vehicle Noise

From modified exhausts to booming car stereos, vehicle noise is a common complaint. Learn what your local ordinance says about it and the right steps to take to report a violation.

November 4, 2025

Leaf Blower Wars: A Guide to Navigating Autumn's Loudest Chore

The roar of leaf blowers can shatter autumn peace. This guide explains the typical rules for gas-powered blowers, when their use becomes a nuisance, and how to resolve disputes.

November 3, 2025

Noise from Bars and Restaurants: What Can Residents Do?

Living near a lively nightlife spot has its perks, but also its noise. We explore the specific rules that apply to commercial establishments and who to contact for violations.

November 2, 2025

From Annoyance to Action: A Checklist for Your First Noise Complaint

Feeling overwhelmed by a noise issue? This step-by-step checklist guides you through the entire process, from your first polite conversation to filing a formal complaint.

November 1, 2025

The 'Reasonable Person' Standard: What Does It Mean in a Noise Complaint?

Noise ordinances often prohibit 'unreasonably loud' noise, but what does that mean legally? We break down the 'reasonable person' standard and how it's applied.

October 31, 2025

Halloween Parties and Noise: How to Be Spooky, Not a Nuisance

Planning a Halloween bash? Learn how to keep the spooky festivities fun for everyone without violating noise ordinances or creating a neighborhood horror story.

October 30, 2025

Is Your Doorbell Recording Your Conversations? Privacy and Noise Disputes

Smart doorbells are everywhere, and many record audio. We explore the privacy implications and how these recordings can play a role in documenting noise complaints.

October 29, 2025

Apartment Noise vs. House Noise: Are the Rules Different?

The noise regulations for a single-family home can be very different from those for an apartment building. Learn about the unique rules that apply to multi-family dwellings.

October 28, 2025

Is My Tenant Too Loud? A Landlord's Guide to Handling Noise Complaints

As a landlord, you have a legal duty to address noise issues between tenants. This guide covers your responsibilities and the steps to take for a fair resolution.

October 27, 2025

White Noise, Brown Noise, Pink Noise: Can Sound Masking Help You Sleep?

When soundproofing isn't enough, sound masking can be a powerful tool for blocking out disruptive noises. We explain the difference between the 'colors' of noise.

October 26, 2025

What is 'Disorderly Conduct' and How Does it Relate to Noise?

Some noise complaints can escalate to disorderly conduct. Understand the legal definition and when a noise issue becomes a more serious public disturbance.

October 25, 2025

Holiday Parties and Noise: A Guide to Celebrating Considerately

Planning a holiday get-together? Here are some simple tips to ensure your party is memorable for your guests, not your neighbors.

October 24, 2025

The Surprising Health Effects of Chronic Noise Exposure

Persistent noise isn't just annoying—it can have real impacts on your health, from sleep loss to increased stress. Learn about the risks and why it's important to address them.

October 23, 2025

Using Technology to Your Advantage in a Noise Dispute

From your phone's camera to decibel meter apps, modern tech can be a powerful ally in documenting and resolving a noise complaint. Here's how to use it effectively.

October 22, 2025

What Qualifies as Construction Noise? (And When Is It Illegal?)

Construction is a common noise ordinance exemption, but the rules are specific. Learn the typical hours for construction noise and what to do if a project is violating them.

October 21, 2025

Can't Beat 'Em? Block 'Em: A Renter's Guide to Soundproofing

Practical, non-permanent tips for reducing noise from neighbors in an apartment or rental property, from door sweeps to acoustic panels.

October 20, 2025

How to Effectively Document a Noise Complaint: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to create a detailed noise log that can be used for complaints to landlords, HOAs, or law enforcement. This guide covers what to record, when, and how.

October 19, 2025

Understanding Decibels: What do dB(A) Limits in Your Ordinance Actually Mean?

Noise ordinances often mention dB(A) limits, but what does that number mean for your daily life? We break down the decibel scale and explain common noise sources to help you understand your local laws.

October 18, 2025

Stop Footstep Noise From Upstairs Neighbors: A Renter's Guide

Loud footsteps, scraping chairs, and dropped objects can be maddening. This guide covers the tricky issue of impact noise and offers practical solutions for apartment dwellers.

October 17, 2025

A Neighbor's Barking Dog: What Are Your Options?

A constructive guide on how to handle a neighbor's barking dog, from friendly conversation to involving animal control, based on local ordinances.

October 16, 2025

Common Noise Ordinance Exemptions: When is Loud Noise Actually Legal?

Learn about common exemptions in city noise ordinances, such as for construction, emergency vehicles, and permitted events. Find out when loud noise might be legal.

October 15, 2025

When Is It Okay to Call the Cops on a Noisy Neighbor?

A guide to handling noise complaints, including when it's appropriate to involve law enforcement and what steps to take first.

October 14, 2025

Neighbor Throwing a Loud Party? Here's What to Do

A one-time loud party is different from a chronic noise issue. This guide covers the best way to handle the situation without escalating it into a long-term neighbor dispute.

October 13, 2025

Your Landlord's Responsibility for Noise: Understanding the Covenant of Quiet Enjoyment

As a renter, you have a right to 'quiet enjoyment' of your home. We explain what this legal term means and what steps you can take when your landlord needs to get involved in a noise dispute.

October 12, 2025

Quiet Hours Explained: What Time Is Legally 'Too Loud' In Your City?

It's the most common neighborhood question. We break down what 'quiet hours' really mean, how they vary by location, and the best way to approach your neighbor when they're being too loud.

October 11, 2025

How to Talk to Your Noisy Neighbor (Without Starting a War)

It’s one of the most dreaded social interactions, but a polite, well-timed conversation is often the quickest way to solve a noise problem. Here's how to approach it constructively.

October 10, 2025

How to Find Your Local Quiet Hours

Wondering 'what are the quiet hours in my area?' This guide breaks down the best ways to find the specific noise rules for your city, from using online tools to checking your lease.

October 09, 2025

Is It Okay to Vacuum at 7 AM? A Neighborly Guide

It might be legal, but is it considerate? We break down the rules and etiquette of early morning household chores like vacuuming, especially in apartments.

October 08, 2025

Beyond a Simple Chat: How to Mediate a Noise Dispute

When talking to your neighbor doesn't solve the noise problem, formal mediation can be an effective next step. Here's how it works and how to prepare.

October 07, 2025

What Is a 'Nuisance Abatement' Team and When Should You Call Them?

For chronic noise issues that aren't emergencies, your city may have a specialized Nuisance Abatement team. Learn what they do and when they're the right call.

October 06, 2025

What to Do When You're the One Getting a Noise Complaint

Getting a noise complaint can be surprising and stressful. This guide provides constructive steps on how to listen, respond, and find a peaceful resolution with your neighbor.

October 05, 2025

Acoustic Leaks: How to Find and Seal the Hidden Gaps Where Noise Gets In

Sound is like water—it gets through the smallest cracks. This practical guide helps you identify and seal common acoustic leaks around windows, doors, and outlets.

October 04, 2025

Dealing with Short-Term Rental Noise (Airbnb, Vrbo)

A revolving door of noisy guests at a neighboring Airbnb can be a nightmare. Learn the effective steps for reporting the issue to the host, the platform, and local authorities.

October 03, 2025

Noise from Children Playing: What's Reasonable and When Does It Cross the Line?

The sound of children playing is usually a welcome part of neighborhood life, but when does it become a legitimate noise issue? We explore this sensitive topic.

October 02, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to HOA Noise Rules vs. City Ordinances

Your HOA rules might be stricter than the city's. This guide explains the differences, which rules take precedence, and how to navigate a complaint within an HOA.

October 01, 2025

Is My Neighbor's Security Camera Pointed at My Window? What to Do

Security cameras are common, but they can create privacy concerns. Learn about your rights, the laws regarding surveillance, and how to address a camera that feels intrusive.

September 30, 2025

Is There a Noise Ordinance in My Area? Yes, and Here's How to Find It

The definitive answer is almost always yes. This guide explains why virtually every community has noise laws and provides a simple, step-by-step process to find the specific rules for your city or town.

September 29, 2025

A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Your City Noise Ordinance

City noise ordinances can be confusing. We break down the key components you'll find in most legal codes, from quiet hours and decibel limits, to common exemptions and enforcement.