Tuscaloosa, AL Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Tuscaloosa, AL?
| Regulation | Details for Tuscaloosa, AL |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-6AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 205-349-2121 or 311 (within city limits) |
9PM-6AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Tuscaloosa, AL Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Tuscaloosa, AL?
Tuscaloosa, AL noise ordinances, primarily found in Chapter 10.8 of the City's Code, prohibit noise disturbing residential peace. During 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., noise must not exceed 80 db(A), and from 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., it must not exceed 75 db(A) at property lines. Certain activities like construction and domestic power equipment are exempt during specific daytime hours.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 80 db(A) | 75 db(A) |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: Limits for residential areas are measured at any property line within a residential district or upon any public street or right-of-way within, or bordering upon, any residential district. Day is 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; night is 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction activity or equipment is exempt from the noise ordinance between 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m..
- Amplified Sound:
Operating sound-amplifying equipment in a motor vehicle that produces sound exceeding 75 db(A) on any public street or right-of-way is unlawful. It is also unlawful to operate sound-amplifying equipment that is plainly audible at a distance of 30 feet or more from the property line from which the noise emanates and plainly audible within any residential district.
- Animals:
It is unlawful to allow any dog to bark continuously, defined as barking, yelping, howling, or growling during the majority of any ten-minute period.
- Vehicles:
The normal and usual operation of motor vehicles and trains is exempt from the general noise ordinance. Vehicles must be equipped with a muffler to prevent excessive or unusual noise.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tuscaloosa, AL Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Tuscaloosa, AL?
9PM-6AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Tuscaloosa, AL?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 80 db(A) during the day and 75 db(A) 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 Tuscaloosa, AL?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Tuscaloosa, AL police non-emergency line at 205-349-2121 or 311 (within city limits). For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 205-248-5311 or 311 (within city limits).