Scottsdale, AZ Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Scottsdale, AZ?
| Regulation | Details for Scottsdale, AZ |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | Not specified |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 480-312-5000 |
Scottsdale's ordinances primarily address 'unreasonable noise' and 'nuisance parties' rather than universally defined quiet hours. For residential areas, excessive noise after 10:00 PM and particularly after 2:00 AM is generally considered problematic. Specific quiet hours for general residential noise are not explicitly detailed in available ordinance summaries; instead, a 'nuisance' standard applies.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Scottsdale, AZ Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Scottsdale, AZ?
Scottsdale, AZ noise ordinances, notably the Special Noise Violations Ordinance, regulate "unreasonable noise" from businesses with alcohol or live entertainment and nuisance parties in residences, including short-term rentals. Businesses must maintain 68 dB at 100 feet from residential zones. Penalties for nuisance parties range from $250 to $1,500. The city is actively updating these regulations for clearer standards.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified | Not specified |
| Commercial | 68 dBA at 100 feet from a residential district | 68 dBA at 100 feet from a residential district |
Note: Businesses serving alcohol or providing live entertainment within Mixed Use developments are required to meet 68 decibels at least 100 feet from their business within a residential district. A normal conversation is typically between 60-70 dBA. Police have not measured readings exceeding 68dBA in residential areas around Old Town Scottsdale during complaint responses.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction noise is regulated by Sec. 31-13 of the City Code, which addresses situations where a construction site may impact. Specific operational hours for construction are not detailed in available summaries.
- Amplified Sound:
Sound from businesses serving alcohol or providing live entertainment is prohibited if it creates unreasonable noise disturbing residential districts, with a limit of 68 dBA at 100 feet from the business. The city is evaluating updates to include reasonable sound standards for bass frequencies and outdoor amplification.
- Animals:
While not specifically detailed as an 'animal noise' ordinance, general 'ambient noise, anytime of day' and 'general disturbance of the peace' are covered under the state disorderly conduct statute, which could include animal-related disturbances.
- Vehicles:
The state disorderly conduct statute covers 'ambient noise, anytime of day,' including 'UBER pickups, employees playing music, people being loud, general disturbance of the peace,' and 'landscaping equipment, power tools.'
Frequently Asked Questions about Scottsdale, AZ Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Scottsdale, AZ?
Scottsdale's ordinances primarily address 'unreasonable noise' and 'nuisance parties' rather than universally defined quiet hours. For residential areas, excessive noise after 10:00 PM and particularly after 2:00 AM is generally considered problematic. Specific quiet hours for general residential noise are not explicitly detailed in available ordinance summaries; instead, a 'nuisance' standard applies.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Scottsdale, AZ?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified during the day and Not specified 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 Scottsdale, AZ?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Scottsdale, AZ police non-emergency line at 480-312-5000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 480-312-2546.