Key West, FL Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Key West, FL?
| Regulation | Details for Key West, FL |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 8PM-8AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 305-809-1000 |
8:00 PM to 7:59 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Key West, FL Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Key West, FL?
Key West, FL noise ordinances, governed by Chapter 26, Article IV, 'Sound Control,' prohibit unreasonable excessive noise exceeding specific decibel limits: 85 dBA/77 dBC during the day (8 AM to 7:59 PM) and 60 dBA/62 dBC at night (8 PM to 7:59 AM). Construction activities have restricted hours, and fuel-powered leaf blowers are regulated in historic districts.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 85 dBA or 77 dBC | 60 dBA or 62 dBC |
| Commercial | 85 dBA or 77 dBC | 60 dBA or 62 dBC |
Note: These decibel limits for unreasonable excessive noise were discussed in May 2023 workshop minutes, measured from the sound source property line in commercial districts and from the complaining party's property line in residential areas. The City Commission reportedly did not support removing objective decibel levels in January 2024, indicating their continued relevance despite ongoing discussions to amend the Sound Control Ordinance.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Commercial construction, demolition, drilling, or similar activities are limited to Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. No commercial construction is permitted on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Domestic power tools are allowed Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Amplified Sound:
Events expecting to exceed set decibel levels must obtain a Noise Exemption from the City Commission, with exemptions not issued for the same location within 60 days. Readings for 'disturbing noise' are taken 100 feet from the sound source; 'unreasonable excessive noise' readings are taken from the property line of the sound source (commercial) or the complaining party (residential).
- Animals:
The ordinance differentiates between 'disturbing noise' (subjective, raucous/jarring) and 'unreasonable excessive noise' (objective, decibel-measured), which could apply to animal disturbances like crowing roosters. Specific animal noise regulations beyond this general framework are not detailed.
- Vehicles:
Key West International Airport urges voluntary noise abatement procedures for aircraft from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Engine run-ups are restricted to designated areas between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
- Leaf Blowers:
Fuel-powered leaf blowers are prohibited from use within 50 feet of a residence in the Historic Preservation Districts and Historic Neighborhood Commercial Districts at any time, effective April 5, 2021.
Frequently Asked Questions about Key West, FL Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Key West, FL?
8:00 PM to 7:59 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Key West, FL?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 85 dBA or 77 dBC during the day and 60 dBA or 62 dBC 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 Key West, FL?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Key West, FL police non-emergency line at 305-809-1000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 305-809-3740.