Honolulu, HI Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Honolulu, HI?
| Regulation | Details for Honolulu, HI |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: Call 911 for emergencies. For general noise complaints, contact the Honolulu Police Department. For city code violations, including noise, call (808) 529-3111. |
Generally, residential quiet hours are from 10 PM to 7 AM. Construction noise is typically restricted to weekdays 7 AM - 6 PM and Saturdays 9 AM - 6 PM. Amplified sound in Waikiki has stricter night hours from 7 PM to 6 AM.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Honolulu, HI Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Honolulu, HI?
Honolulu, HI noise ordinances, primarily found in the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu and Hawaii Administrative Rules Title 11, Chapter 46, establish regulations to control excessive noise. These laws address various sources, including construction, amplified sound, vehicles, and animal nuisances, with specific decibel limits and quiet hours tailored to different zoning districts and activities.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) | 45 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM) |
| Commercial | 60 dBA | 50 dBA |
Note: These limits apply to Class A (residential) and Class B (mixed-use/commercial) zones respectively. Statewide, maximum permissible sound from stationary sources for all zoning districts is 70 dBA. Construction projects generally have a maximum noise level of 78 dBA during allowed hours, but exceeding 78 dBA requires a permit/variance. Amplified sound in Waikiki cannot exceed 80 dBA at 30 feet, or 80 dBA continuously for one minute in any five-minute period measured within 8 feet from the amplifier during night hours.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
General construction and demolition hours are weekdays from 7 AM to 6 PM and Saturdays from 9 AM to 6 PM. No construction noise is allowed on Sundays and holidays without a special variance. Construction noise cannot exceed 55 dBA in residential zones (7 AM - 10 PM) and 45 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM). For projects under $250,000, a maximum of 78 dBA is allowed during permitted hours. Special permits (Community Noise Permits or Variances) are required for projects exceeding these limits, using specific heavy equipment (jackhammers, hydraulic rams, pile drivers), or working outside standard hours.
- Amplified Sound:
It is unlawful to play or operate any sound-reproducing device on public property, including streets and parks, or in motor vehicles on public streets, if the sound is audible at a distance of 30 feet from the device. In Waikiki, amplified sound on public sidewalks is restricted between 7 PM and 6 AM, and cannot exceed 80 dBA at a distance of 30 feet, or continuously for one minute in any five-minute period measured at 8 feet from the amplifier. Permits from the chief of police are required for sound vehicles. Using sound amplifying devices near hospitals or in public buildings without approval is prohibited.
- Animals:
It is unlawful for any animal, particularly dogs, to make noise continuously for 10 minutes, or intermittently for 30 minutes or more, that disturbs any person at any time. Unreasonable noise is defined as that which interferes with reasonable individual or group activities such as communication, work, rest, recreation, or sleep.
- Vehicles:
Any sound coming from a vehicle loud enough to be audible at a distance of 30 feet on the road is prohibited. The Honolulu Police Department enforces vehicular noise control rules, and sound detectors are being implemented on Oahu to help crack down on illegal vehicle noise, such as modified mufflers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Honolulu, HI Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Honolulu, HI?
Generally, residential quiet hours are from 10 PM to 7 AM. Construction noise is typically restricted to weekdays 7 AM - 6 PM and Saturdays 9 AM - 6 PM. Amplified sound in Waikiki has stricter night hours from 7 PM to 6 AM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Honolulu, HI?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) during the day and 45 dBA (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 Honolulu, HI?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Honolulu, HI police non-emergency line at Call 911 for emergencies. For general noise complaints, contact the Honolulu Police Department. For city code violations, including noise, call (808) 529-3111.. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) for housing code complaints and investigations: (808) 768-8116. For building code complaints and investigations: (808) 768-3185..