Tucson, AZ Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Tucson, AZ?

10:00 PM to 7:00 AM

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Tucson, AZ Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Tucson, AZ?

Tucson, AZ noise ordinances, found in Tucson Code Section 16-31, prohibit excessive noise disturbing public peace. Residential areas have decibel limits of 70 dBA during the day (7 AM-10 PM) and 62 dBA at night (10 PM-7 AM). Specific rules govern construction, amplified sound, and animal noise, with penalties for violations.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Tucson, AZ
Zone TypeDayNight
Residential70 dBA62 dBA
Commercial72 dBA65 dBA

Note: Decibel limits are measured at the receiving property line between 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (day) and 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. (night).

Specific Restrictions

  • Construction:

    Construction activities are generally prohibited from 8:00 p.m. to sunrise, Monday through Saturday, and at any time on Sundays and legal holidays. An exception allows work at one's own residence from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sundays or legal holidays. However, a new state law allows construction to begin at 5:00 a.m. from May 1 through October 15 on weekdays, with concrete pours permitted at 4:00 a.m., overriding previous city sunrise regulations. Temporary noise exemptions can be requested for activities outside these hours or exceeding decibel limits.

  • Amplified Sound:

    It is unlawful to allow continuous or intermittent amplified sound that persists for 15 minutes or more and disturbs others. Property-line limits of 70 dBA by day and 62 dBA by night apply. Sound amplification systems in vehicles are prohibited if plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet or causing a person to be aware of vibration at 50 feet.

  • Animals:

    Owning, possessing, harboring, or permitting any animal or bird that frequently or for continuous duration howls, barks, meows, squawks, or makes other sounds disturbing the peace is prohibited. Peace officers or county animal control officers are authorized to issue citations. Pima Animal Care Center encourages mediation and requires a noise log for formal complaints.

  • Vehicles:

    Creating or allowing a loud, disturbing noise in connection with the loading or unloading of any vehicle is prohibited. Sound amplification systems in vehicles are prohibited if plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet or causing a person to be aware of vibration at 50 feet.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tucson, AZ Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Tucson, AZ?

10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Tucson, AZ?

Residential areas typically have a limit of 70 dBA during the day and 62 dBA 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 Tucson, AZ?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Tucson, AZ police non-emergency line at (520) 791-4444. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (520) 791-5843.

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