Columbus, GA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Columbus, GA?
| Regulation | Details for Columbus, GA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 706-653-3100 |
10 PM to 7 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Columbus, GA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Columbus, GA?
Columbus, GA noise ordinances, specifically Article V, Chapter 14, prohibit loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise disturbing the peace. Residential areas face limits of 60 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime. Commercial zones have higher limits. Quiet hours for amplified sound and construction are generally 10 PM to 7 AM, with violations resulting in misdemeanor charges.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 60 dB(A) (7 AM - 10 PM) | 55 dB(A) (10 PM - 7 AM) |
| Commercial | 75 dB(A) (7 AM - 10 PM) | 70 dB(A) (10 PM - 7 AM) |
Note: Decibel limits are A-weighted. Agricultural districts adhere to commercial limits. Industrial districts have different limits, and special considerations apply when abutting residential or commercial areas. These provisions do not apply to motor vehicles on public rights-of-way, church bells, or certain loading/unloading activities.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction activities are generally prohibited in any residential or commercial district between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
- Amplified Sound:
It is unlawful to operate radios, televisions, musical instruments, or similar devices in a manner that disturbs neighboring residents. Operation creating a plainly audible sound at the property line in a residential district, 50 feet from a device on public rights-of-way, or 25 feet from a commercial property line exceeding the ambient noise level by more than five decibels is prima facie evidence of a violation. In residential areas, amplified sounds should not be heard 50 feet past the property line, and the average hourly maximum sound level should not be above 60dB from 10pm to 7am.
- Animals:
No person shall keep or permit any animal or bird to create frequent or habitual howling, barking, meowing, squawking, or other noise that unreasonably disturbs the peace and quiet of any neighborhood.
- Vehicles:
Vehicles must be equipped with adequate, properly maintained mufflers, and modifications like cutoffs or bypasses are prohibited. Loading/unloading of trucks is prohibited in residential districts or within 300 feet of a hotel/motel between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Additionally, Georgia state law makes it unlawful to operate amplified sound from a motor vehicle plainly audible at a distance of 100 feet or more.
Frequently Asked Questions about Columbus, GA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Columbus, GA?
10 PM to 7 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Columbus, GA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 60 dB(A) (7 AM - 10 PM) during the day and 55 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 Columbus, GA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Columbus, GA police non-emergency line at 706-653-3100. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 706-225-4126.