Indianapolis, IN Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Indianapolis, IN?
| Regulation | Details for Indianapolis, IN |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 317-327-3811 |
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general disturbances); 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM (construction); 10:00 PM - 10:00 AM (vendor vehicles with amplified sound).
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Indianapolis, IN Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Indianapolis, IN?
Indianapolis, IN noise ordinances, primarily found in Article III, Chapter 391 of the city's Code of Ordinances, prohibit "unreasonable noise" that disrupts the health, safety, welfare, prosperity, comfort, or repose of residents. Specific restrictions apply to activities like construction, amplified sound, animal vocalizations, and vehicle operation, particularly during designated quiet hours.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: Motor vehicles over 35 mph are limited to 86 dB(A), and under 35 mph to 82 dB(A). Vendor vehicles with sound equipment must not exceed 115 decibels at six inches from the speaker.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
The erection, demolition, alteration, or repair of any building, or excavation, is prohibited between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., except in cases of urgent necessity with a permit. One source also mentions a general prohibition outside of 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
- Amplified Sound:
Playing any radio, television, loudspeaker, sound amplifier, musical instrument, or similar device in a manner that creates unreasonable noise is prohibited. Operation producing sound plainly audible outside the property between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. is prima facie evidence of a violation. Amplified sound from vendor vehicles is restricted between 10:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. and cannot exceed 115 decibels at six inches from the speaker. Noncommercial aircraft with sound-amplifying equipment are permitted only between 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
- Animals:
It is unlawful to own or keep any animal which, by frequent or habitual howling, yelping, barking, screeching, or other vocalization, causes serious annoyance or disturbance to persons in the vicinity (Sec 531-204).
- Vehicles:
The sounding of any horn or signaling device in a manner that makes unreasonable noise is prohibited. Vehicles must be equipped with a muffler or other noise-reducing device that complies with standards. Operation of engines without a compliant muffler between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. that is plainly audible outside the property is prohibited. Decibel limits for motor vehicles are 86 dB(A) for speeds over 35 mph and 82 dB(A) for speeds under 35 mph.
Frequently Asked Questions about Indianapolis, IN Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Indianapolis, IN?
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general disturbances); 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM (construction); 10:00 PM - 10:00 AM (vendor vehicles with amplified sound).. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Indianapolis, 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 Indianapolis, IN?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Indianapolis, IN police non-emergency line at 317-327-3811. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 317-327-8700.