Stamford, CT Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Stamford, CT?
| Regulation | Details for Stamford, CT |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 8PM-8AM (variable on Sundays/holidays) |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 203-977-4444 |
Nighttime hours are from 8:01 PM to 7:59 AM, Monday through Saturday. On Sundays and Federal holidays, nighttime hours are from 5:01 PM to 9:59 AM. Daytime hours are the periods outside these nighttime hours.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Stamford, CT Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Stamford, CT?
Stamford, CT's "City of Stamford Noise Control Ordinance" (Chapter 164) aims to protect residents from excessive sound. It defines quiet hours, restricts construction noise, and regulates amplified sound from vehicles. Violations can lead to significant hourly fines. Recent amendments address gas-powered leaf blowers and amplified vehicle speakers.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not explicitly specified, but noise exceeding background levels by 5 decibels is considered excessive, with an overall limit of 80 dB. | Impulse noise in excess of 80 decibels peak sound-pressure level is prohibited. Noise exceeding background levels by 5 decibels is considered excessive, with an overall limit of 80 dB. |
| Commercial | Not explicitly specified, but noise exceeding background levels by 5 decibels is considered excessive, with an overall limit of 80 dB. | Not explicitly specified, but noise exceeding background levels by 5 decibels is considered excessive, with an overall limit of 80 dB. |
Note: No person shall emit noise exceeding background levels by five decibels, or exceed 80 decibels at any time. Impulse noise must not exceed 100 decibels at any time in any zone.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction and demolition activities are generally prohibited before 7:00 AM on Monday through Friday, before 8:00 AM on Saturday, and before 10:00 AM on Sunday.
- Amplified Sound:
No sound-amplifying devices on or within motor vehicles shall emit noise exceeding the specified noise levels. An ordinance prohibits unreasonable noise from external speakers attached to motor vehicles.
- Animals:
The Code of Ordinances references Chapter 111 for 'Dogs and other animals'. Animal Control investigates nuisance pet complaints.
- Vehicles:
Motor vehicles are subject to noise standards set forth in Sections 14-80a-1a through 14-80a-10a of the Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies. Recreational vehicles are prohibited from creating unreasonably loud or disturbing noise exceeding established standards. An ordinance was recently passed to address excessively loud noise from external speaker systems attached to motor vehicles and motorized recreational vehicles.
- Leaf Blowers:
Gas-powered leaf blowers are restricted to 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM on Monday through Friday, and 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday. From October 1st to December 31st, they may be used during general daytime hours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Stamford, CT Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Stamford, CT?
Nighttime hours are from 8:01 PM to 7:59 AM, Monday through Saturday. On Sundays and Federal holidays, nighttime hours are from 5:01 PM to 9:59 AM. Daytime hours are the periods outside these nighttime hours.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Stamford, CT?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not explicitly specified, but noise exceeding background levels by 5 decibels is considered excessive, with an overall limit of 80 dB. during the day and Impulse noise in excess of 80 decibels peak sound-pressure level is prohibited. Noise exceeding background levels by 5 decibels is considered excessive, with an overall limit of 80 dB. 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 Stamford, CT?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Stamford, CT police non-emergency line at 203-977-4444. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 203-977-4711.