Fort Wayne, IN Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Fort Wayne, IN?
| Regulation | Details for Fort Wayne, IN |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 260-427-1222 |
11 PM to 7 AM (general)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Fort Wayne, IN Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Fort Wayne, IN?
Fort Wayne, IN noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 96, prohibit loud, raucous, or unusual noises disturbing the peace and comfort of inhabitants, declaring such as a public nuisance. General quiet hours are often cited as 11 PM to 7 AM. Specific rules exist for amplified sound and vehicles, with fines ranging from $150 to $500 per offense.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: Noise is prohibited if 'audible at a distance of 30 feet' from its source on public property or from a motor vehicle.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Lawn mowers, garden tractors, and similar home power tools are exempted when properly muffled, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
- Amplified Sound:
Playing or operating sound-producing devices is prohibited on public property or from motor vehicles if the sound is audible at a distance of 30 feet from its source. Enforcement of a provision prohibiting amplified sound audible more than 50 feet away was barred by a federal lawsuit settlement.
- Animals:
It is a violation to make any loud, raucous, improper, unreasonable, offensive, or unusual noise, disorder, or tumult that disturbs the peace. This includes disturbing noises caused by animals.
- Vehicles:
Prohibited acts include continuous or repeated sounding of a vehicle horn not used as a danger signal, using vehicles that create loud or unnecessary grating, grinding, or rattling noises due to appurtenances, or excessive noise from defective/modified exhaust systems, rapid acceleration, deceleration, revving, or tire squeal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Wayne, IN Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Fort Wayne, IN?
11 PM to 7 AM (general). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Fort Wayne, IN?
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 Fort Wayne, IN?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Fort Wayne, IN police non-emergency line at 260-427-1222. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 311.