Anchorage, AK Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Anchorage, AK?

10PM-7AM

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

3-1-1How to file a complaint →

Anchorage, AK Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Anchorage, AK?

Anchorage, AK noise ordinances, primarily found in Anchorage Municipal Code (AMC) Chapter 15.70, regulate sound to protect public health and welfare. They establish property line emission standards, restrict specific noisy activities, and define quiet hours to mitigate noise disturbances in residential and noise-sensitive areas, requiring permits for certain exemptions like construction or public events.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Anchorage, AK
Zone TypeDayNight
ResidentialNot specified in general table format, but specific activity limits apply.Not specified in general table format, but specific activity limits apply.
CommercialNot specified in general table format, but specific activity limits apply.Not specified in general table format, but specific activity limits apply.

Note: General residential and commercial property line decibel limits are set forth in AMC 15.70.080, but specific values for day/night were not directly available in the provided snippets. Specific noise limits for certain activities are mentioned, such as motor vehicles (85 dBA generally, 75 dBA residential 8 PM-8 AM), motor vehicle horns (90 dBA at 100 feet), motorboats (80 dB(A) at 50 feet), and refuse compacting (86 dB(A) at 50 feet).

Specific Restrictions

  • Construction:

    Construction and demolition activities may require a noise permit. Without a permit, sound levels exceeding an L eq of 80 dB(A) at commercial or industrial property boundaries are restricted from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. during the construction season or 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. during other months. Domestic power tools used in residential areas are prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if they cause a noise disturbance.

  • Amplified Sound:

    Operation of any radio, television, musical instrument, sound amplifier, or similar device causing a noise disturbance across a real property boundary or within a noise-sensitive zone is prohibited unless a permit is issued for public events.

  • Animals:

    It is unlawful for an animal owner or custodian to permit chronic animal noise. Anchorage Animal Care & Control handles complaints, and repeated violations (three or more Notices of Violation within one year) may lead to animal forfeiture.

  • Vehicles:

    Motor vehicles must be equipped with a muffler, and devices like muffler cutouts are prohibited. Vehicle noise generally cannot exceed 85 dBA at 50 feet; in residential areas, it cannot exceed 75 dBA at 50 feet between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. Refuse collection vehicles and their compacting mechanisms are prohibited in noise-sensitive zones between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Vehicle horns may only be sounded as a warning of danger and must not exceed 90 dB(A) at 100 feet.

  • Vibration:

    Operation of any device producing low-frequency, audible, or inaudible sound that creates vibration above the perception threshold within a residential real property boundary or noise-sensitive zone is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

  • Street Sales:

    Offering for sale or selling anything by shouting or outcry is prohibited within any residential or commercial area of the municipality except between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anchorage, AK Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Anchorage, AK?

10PM-7AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Anchorage, AK?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified in general table format, but specific activity limits apply. during the day and Not specified in general table format, but specific activity limits apply. at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.

Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Anchorage, AK?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Anchorage, AK police non-emergency line at 3-1-1. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (907) 343-4141.