Evanston, IL Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Evanston, IL?
| Regulation | Details for Evanston, IL |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 847-866-5000 |
Generally, loud public disturbances are prohibited between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Amplified sound has specific quiet hours: 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM on weekdays and 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM on weekends. Yelling and shouting are also prohibited between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Evanston, IL Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Evanston, IL?
Evanston, IL noise ordinances, primarily City Code 9-5-20, prohibit loud, unnecessary, or unusual noises disturbing the peace. Restrictions cover amplified sound, vehicle noise, and construction activities, aiming to maintain public tranquility. General quiet hours are 11 PM to 7 AM, with specific rules for various noise sources and potential fines ranging from $100 to $500.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: Construction noise exceeding 80 decibels (measured from the property line) is prohibited between 6:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction work is permitted between 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM on Saturdays. Loud activities like jackhammering and sandblasting are prohibited between 6:00 PM - 7:00 AM on weekdays, 6:00 PM Friday - 8:00 AM Saturday, and 5:00 PM Saturday - 7:00 AM Monday (Sundays) unless special permission is granted. No construction is permitted on Sundays.
- Amplified Sound:
Loudspeakers, amplifiers, and sound systems must be turned off between 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM on weekdays and 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM on weekends. Outdoor events with loudspeakers require a permit. Amplified music on public ways is also prohibited.
- Animals:
Dogs and other animals should not make loud noises for long periods, such as constant barking, that disturb the peace.
- Vehicles:
All cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats must have a working muffler. Vehicles making loud grinding, rattling, or disturbing sounds must be fixed. Loud noise during loading/unloading from vehicles is not allowed. Car alarms should not sound for more than 4 minutes. Honking is for safety only. Playing music too loud in a car is illegal if audible from 75 feet away.
Frequently Asked Questions about Evanston, IL Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Evanston, IL?
Generally, loud public disturbances are prohibited between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Amplified sound has specific quiet hours: 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM on weekdays and 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM on weekends. Yelling and shouting are also prohibited between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Evanston, IL?
Residential areas typically have a limit of established limits during the day and stricter limits 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 Evanston, IL?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Evanston, IL police non-emergency line at 847-866-5000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 847-448-4311.