Norwalk, CT Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Norwalk, CT?
| Regulation | Details for Norwalk, CT |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 8PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (203) 854-3000 |
Nighttime Hours are defined as 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM Sunday evening through Friday morning, 8:00 PM Friday to 8:00 AM Saturday, and 8:00 PM Saturday to 9:00 AM Sunday morning. Daytime Hours are 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Saturday, and 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays and federal/state holidays.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Norwalk, CT Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Norwalk, CT?
Norwalk, CT noise ordinances, particularly Chapter 68, aim to protect public health and welfare by regulating noise levels. Residential zones have limits of 55 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night. Commercial zones are restricted to 63 dBA, while industrial zones have limits of 70 dBA during the day and 66 dBA at night. Violations start at a $50 fine, with potential for higher penalties and permit revocation for repeat offenses.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dBA | 45 dBA |
| Commercial | 63 dBA | 63 dBA |
Note: Industrial zones have limits of 70 dBA (day) and 66 dBA (night). These limits were updated in December 2025. If noise is 'plainly audible' from at least 100 feet away, a sound level reading is not required.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
No construction equipment operation or demolition during nighttime hours, except for emergencies with a permit from the Director of Health (max three days). Blasting is prohibited between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. unless an emergency permit is granted. Generators on permitted construction sites cannot exceed 60 dBA at the property line during daytime and are prohibited during nighttime without a permit/variance. All motorized construction equipment must have a properly functioning muffler.
- Amplified Sound:
No sound-amplifying devices on or within motor vehicles shall emit noise in excess of specified noise levels.
- Animals:
The Animal Control Division enforces local laws concerning dogs, cats, and other animals. Dogs that create a nuisance are subject to laws and fines.
- Vehicles:
All motor vehicles are subject to the noise standards and decibel levels set forth in the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies (Sections 14-80a-1a through 14-80a-10a). No unreasonably loud or disturbing noise from recreational vehicles. Exhaust from motor vehicles must be discharged through an effective muffler or noise-reducing device.
Frequently Asked Questions about Norwalk, CT Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Norwalk, CT?
Nighttime Hours are defined as 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM Sunday evening through Friday morning, 8:00 PM Friday to 8:00 AM Saturday, and 8:00 PM Saturday to 9:00 AM Sunday morning. Daytime Hours are 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Saturday, and 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays and federal/state holidays.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Norwalk, CT?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dBA during the day and 45 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 Norwalk, CT?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Norwalk, CT police non-emergency line at (203) 854-3000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (203) 854-7755.