Carmel, IN Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Carmel, IN?
| Regulation | Details for Carmel, IN |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | Not specified |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 317-571-2580 |
Residential zones: 10:00 PM - 8:00 AM. Commercial zones: 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM. Industrial/Agricultural zones have a 70 dBA limit at all times.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Carmel, IN Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Carmel, IN?
Carmel, IN noise ordinances, specifically City Code Section 6-158, regulate sound levels based on zoning district and time of day. Residential areas have limits of 55 dBA during the day and 50 dBA at night. Commercial zones have limits of 60 dBA day and 50 dBA night, while industrial/agricultural zones have a consistent 70 dBA limit. Construction equipment is generally restricted to 6 AM to 10 PM.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dBA (8:00 AM - 10:00 PM) | 50 dBA (10:00 PM - 8:00 AM) |
| Commercial | 60 dBA (7:00 AM - 11:00 PM) | 50 dBA (11:00 PM - 7:00 AM) |
Note: Industrial/Agricultural zones (I-1, M-1, M-3, AG-1) have a consistent 70 dBA limit anytime. A general limit of more than 70 dBA for any period of time is prohibited if measured 50 feet or more from the source.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Lawn mowers, weed blowers, garden tractors, construction and repair equipment, go-carts, and power tools, when properly muffled, are permitted only between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
- Amplified Sound:
No person shall play, use, or operate any machine, motor vehicle, device, or thing that produces or reproduces sound at a level exceeding the decibel limits for the respective zoning district and time period, or more than 70 dBA at any time, when measured 50 feet or more from its source.
- Animals:
No person shall keep any animal which, by causing frequent or long-continuing noise audible 50 feet or more from its source (public property) or 50 feet or more outside a private property line (private property), disturbs the comfort or repose of any other person.
- Vehicles:
The operation of motor vehicles producing sound exceeding the established decibel limits for the respective zoning district and time period, or more than 70 dBA at any time, when measured 50 feet or more from its source, is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Carmel, IN Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Carmel, IN?
Residential zones: 10:00 PM - 8:00 AM. Commercial zones: 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM. Industrial/Agricultural zones have a 70 dBA limit at all times.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Carmel, IN?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dBA (8:00 AM - 10:00 PM) during the day and 50 dBA (10:00 PM - 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 Carmel, IN?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Carmel, IN police non-emergency line at 317-571-2580. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 317-571-2491.