What are the quiet hours in Chicago, IL?

In Chicago, IL, designated quiet hours are typically 10PM-8AM. During these times, noise must be kept to a minimum.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Chicago, IL?

For non-emergencies in Chicago, IL, contact the police at 3-1-1 or (312) 746-6000. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at 3-1-1.

Chicago, IL Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Chicago, IL?

Regulation	Details for Chicago, IL
Quiet Hours	10PM-8AM
Weekends	Typically same as weekdays
Enforcement	Police Non-Emergency: 3-1-1 or (312) 746-6000

Generally 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Specific variations exist, such as 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM for loading/unloading, and 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM for motorized construction equipment.

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

3-1-1 or (312) 746-6000 How to file a complaint →

Chicago, IL Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Chicago, IL?

Chicago, IL noise ordinances, primarily the Chicago Environmental Noise Ordinance, regulate disruptive sound levels. General quiet hours are typically 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM, with specific restrictions on construction, amplified sound, and vehicle operation. Violations can lead to escalating fines and may require a compliance plan.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Chicago, IL
Zone Type	Day	Night
Residential	Not specified (general rules apply)	Motor vehicle sound not to exceed 55 dB(A) within any residential unit between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM.
Commercial	Not specified in general sources	Mechanical stationary sources not greater than 55 dB(A) at 100+ feet or 70 dB(A) at 10+ feet between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM.

Note: Amplified sound on the public way cannot exceed 80 dB(A) at 10 feet, or be more than 10 dB(A) above ambient, or louder than average conversational level at 200 feet. It cannot be clearly audible over 75 feet away. Regulated entertainment businesses have specific indoor limits of 55 dB(A) within a dwelling unit, or 10 dB(A) above ambient if ambient is greater than 55 dB(A).

Specific Restrictions

Construction:
General construction, demolition, or repair work is permitted between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM with a permit. Motorized equipment at construction sites is not allowed to operate between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM within 600 feet of any residential building or hospital. The use of pile drivers, shovels, hammers, derricks, hoists, tractors, or rollers is prohibited between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM within 600 feet of any residential building or hospital. Residential (owner-occupied) construction is allowed 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday-Saturday and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sundays. Commercial construction is allowed 7:00 AM (setup) to 8:00 PM (loud machinery) on weekdays, and 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays, generally prohibited on Sundays and holidays. Emergency work or public improvements authorized by a governmental body are exempt.
Amplified Sound:
On the public way, amplified sound for entertainment or communication cannot exceed 80 dB(A) at 10 feet, be more than 10 dB(A) above ambient, or be louder than average conversational level at 200 feet, and cannot be clearly audible over 75 feet away. Between 10:00 PM and 8:00 AM, amplified sound on private open space cannot be louder than average conversational level at 100 feet or more from the property line. Amplified sound at special events must end by 9:00 PM.
Animals:
Chicago does not explicitly state specific barking time limits for dogs. Excessive animal noise or nuisance complaints are typically reported via 3-1-1 to Animal Care and Control. Owners are expected to address barking that disturbs the peace. The 40th Ward suggests contacting their office for mediation regarding neighbor's barking dogs, as Chicago Animal Care and Control primarily addresses dangerous animals.
Vehicles:
No person shall sound any horn unnecessarily or for an unreasonable period. Modifying vehicle exhaust or other noise abatement devices to increase sound levels above original manufacturing is prohibited. Motor vehicle sound should not exceed 55 dB(A) within a residential unit between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM. Squealing tires due to rapid acceleration or excessive speed is also prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago, IL Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Chicago, IL?

Generally 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Specific variations exist, such as 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM for loading/unloading, and 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM for motorized construction equipment.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Chicago, IL?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified (general rules apply) during the day and Motor vehicle sound not to exceed 55 dB(A) within any residential unit between 9:00 PM and 8:00 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 Chicago, IL?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Chicago, IL police non-emergency line at 3-1-1 or (312) 746-6000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 3-1-1.

Call Police