South Bend, IN Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in South Bend, IN?
| Regulation | Details for South Bend, IN |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 574-235-9201 |
10PM-7AM (residential night limits and some construction restrictions); 11PM-7AM (prima facie for unreasonable noise from amplified sound, yelling, etc.)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
South Bend, IN Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in South Bend, IN?
South Bend, IN's noise ordinance, primarily found in Chapter 13, Article 7 ("Noise Control") and Section 13-57 ("Unreasonable noise"), prohibits sounds disturbing the peace, health, or welfare of residents. It establishes specific decibel limits for residential and commercial areas, along with quiet hours, and outlines restrictions for various noise sources like amplified sound, animals, vehicles, and construction activities.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 62 dBA (7AM-10PM) | 55 dBA (10PM-7AM) |
| Commercial | 64 dBA | 64 dBA |
Note: Decibel limits for stationary noises are measured at the property boundary and are equivalent to broadband sound levels. Light motor vehicles are limited to 80 dB(A) at not less than 15 feet.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
General construction and demolition are prohibited between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. unless a permit is granted. The operation of pile drivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, steam or electric hoists, or similar appliances is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
- Amplified Sound:
Operating or permitting the use of radios, television sets, musical instruments, tape or record players, amplifiers, and similar devices in a manner that exceeds specified sound limits (Sec. 13-82) or unreasonably disturbs the peace. Plainly audible sound at 50 feet that unreasonably disturbs neighbors is prohibited. Operation between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. is prima facie evidence of a violation. Use for commercial advertising on public streets is also prohibited.
- Animals:
The harboring or keeping of any animal or fowl that causes frequent or long-continued noise which disturbs or annoys the quiet, comfort, or repose of persons.
- Vehicles:
Light motor vehicles exceeding 80 dB(A) are unlawful. Operating any vehicle so out of repair, so loaded, or in such a manner as to create loud and unnecessary engine noise, grating, grinding, rattling, or other noise exceeding state standards is prohibited. Excessive noise from squealing tires and discharging exhaust without a muffler are also prohibited. Sounding a horn except as a danger warning, or for an unreasonable period or with unreasonable loudness, is forbidden.
Frequently Asked Questions about South Bend, IN Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in South Bend, IN?
10PM-7AM (residential night limits and some construction restrictions); 11PM-7AM (prima facie for unreasonable noise from amplified sound, yelling, etc.). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in South Bend, IN?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 62 dBA (7AM-10PM) during the day and 55 dBA (10PM-7AM) 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 South Bend, IN?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the South Bend, IN police non-emergency line at 574-235-9201. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 311 or 574-233-0311.