Tampa, FL Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Tampa, FL?
| Regulation | Details for Tampa, FL |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (813) 231-6130 |
10PM-7AM (for areas outside specific entertainment districts)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Tampa, FL Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Tampa, FL?
Tampa, FL's noise ordinance, found in Article III of Chapter 14 of the City of Tampa Code, prohibits unreasonably excessive noise. It employs a dual enforcement approach: specific decibel limits are set for entertainment districts, while a 'plainly audible' standard applies to all other areas, particularly during general quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM. Violations can result in fines and, for serious offenses, misdemeanor charges.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 60 dBA or 65 dBC (7 AM - 10 PM) | Plainly audible at 100 feet or more (10 PM - 7 AM) |
| Commercial | 65 dBA or 75 dBC (3 AM - 6 PM in specific districts) | 85 dBA or 87 dBC (6 PM - 3 AM in specific districts); 75 dBA (1 AM - 3 AM) and 65 dBA (after 3 AM) for amplified sound citywide with a gradual reduction. |
Note: Decibel limits apply to the Central Business District, Ybor City Historic District, and Channel District. In other areas, noise is considered unreasonably excessive if plainly audible at 100 feet or more.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction noise is addressed under Sec. 5-120.2 of the Tampa City Code. Specific hours are not provided in the search results.
- Amplified Sound:
Outdoor amplified sound is eliminated after midnight citywide. In Central Business, Ybor City Historic, and Channel Districts, sound up to 85 dBA is lawful until 1 AM, then drops to 75 dBA until 3 AM, and must be below 65 dBA after 3 AM. In other areas, amplified sound is unreasonably excessive if plainly audible at 100 feet or more from the property line.
- Animals:
Animal noise complaints are handled by the Neighborhood Enhancement Division. A verified complaint requires at least two unrelated adult witnesses from different residences, or one adult witness with audio/video evidence, or a code enforcement officer witnessing the nuisance.
- Vehicles:
Excessive noise from motor vehicles is prohibited if the sound is plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet or more from the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tampa, FL Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Tampa, FL?
10PM-7AM (for areas outside specific entertainment districts). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Tampa, FL?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 60 dBA or 65 dBC (7 AM - 10 PM) during the day and Plainly audible at 100 feet or more (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 Tampa, FL?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Tampa, FL police non-emergency line at (813) 231-6130. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (813) 274-5545.