Denver, CO Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Denver, CO?
| Regulation | Details for Denver, CO |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 311 (Enforces Chapter 38 for disturbance of peace/prohibited noises) |
10 PM - 7 AM (residential)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Who To Call (Non-Emergency)
311 (Enforces Chapter 38 for disturbance of peace/prohibited noises)How to file a complaint →Denver, CO Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Denver, CO?
Denver, CO noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 36 of the Denver Revised Municipal Code, prohibit excessive noise to preserve public peace and welfare. It establishes specific decibel limits for residential and commercial areas, differentiating between day and night. The ordinance addresses construction, amplified sound, and vehicle noise, with violations potentially resulting in fines up to $5,000 per day.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dB(A) (7 AM - 10 PM) | 50 dB(A) (10 PM - 7 AM) |
| Commercial | 60 dB(A) (7 AM - 7 PM) | 55 dB(A) (7 PM - 7 AM) |
Note: Limits apply to noise crossing property lines. Exempted special events on public property may reach 85 dB(A) between 8 AM and 10 PM at the nearest residential properties. Colorado state law aligns with these limits.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Plainly audible construction noise is prohibited between 9 PM and 7 AM on weekdays, and between 5 PM and 8 AM on weekends. Setup and teardown noise for events is exempt Monday-Friday 7 AM - 9 PM and Saturday/Sunday 8 AM - 5 PM.
- Amplified Sound:
No amplification, including music and PA systems, before 8 AM and after 10 PM for events. Permitted events on public property can reach 85 dB(A) at the nearest residential properties from 8 AM to 10 PM, then 50 dB(A) from 10 PM to 7 AM, and 55 dB(A) from 7 AM to 8 AM. Events on private property with a permit can emit up to 85 dB(A) for up to eight days annually, with no more than four consecutive days per event and a mandatory 30-day interval between events lasting two or more days.
- Animals:
Noise associated with animals, such as barking dogs, is covered under Chapter 8 of the Denver Revised Municipal Code and is enforced by Denver Animal Protection.
- Vehicles:
Horns are only to be sounded as a warning to prevent accidents or inform of a vehicle's presence. The use of compression engine brakes within city limits is prohibited. Deliveries are generally prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM if they exceed sound pressure limits, excluding construction site deliveries.
Frequently Asked Questions about Denver, CO Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Denver, CO?
10 PM - 7 AM (residential). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Denver, CO?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dB(A) (7 AM - 10 PM) during the day and 50 dB(A) (10 PM - 7 AM) 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 Denver, CO?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Denver, CO police non-emergency line at 311 (Enforces Chapter 38 for disturbance of peace/prohibited noises). For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 311 (Denver Department of Public Health and Environment (DDPHE) enforces Chapter 36).