Lawrence, KS Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Lawrence, KS?
| Regulation | Details for Lawrence, KS |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (785) 843-0250 |
General noise that is plainly audible at an adjacent property line, or 50 feet for multi-family dwellings, is prohibited between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, except on Sundays when the morning hour is 8:00 AM. For construction activity, no work is permitted between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM Monday through Friday, or between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM Saturday through Sunday.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Lawrence, KS Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Lawrence, KS?
Lawrence, KS noise ordinances, particularly Sections 14-413 and 14-414, prohibit any excessive, unreasonable, or unusually loud noise that disturbs the peace, health, or safety of persons with ordinary sensitivity. Ordinance 17-116.1 specifically addresses amplified sound from vehicles, making it unlawful if audible 50 feet or more away. The city also restricts noise from parties that disturb neighboring inhabitants.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified in general ordinance. | Not specified in general ordinance. |
| Commercial | Not specified in general ordinance. | Not specified in general ordinance. |
Note: Lawrence generally uses an 'ordinary person standard' for noise disturbance rather than specific decibel limits in its primary noise ordinance. Specific decibel limits may exist for certain zoning designations, referring to City Code Sections 46-191 and 7.08.002.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction and demolition work audible at any property line is prohibited between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM Monday through Friday, and between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM Saturday through Sunday.
- Amplified Sound:
Operating a sound amplification system from within or upon a motor vehicle on any street, highway, alley, parking lot, or driveway so that the sound is audible at a distance of fifty (50) feet or more from the vehicle is unlawful.
- Animals:
Long-term barking, howling, or other animal sounds that are distracting and annoy neighbors are prohibited. Animals should not disturb the peace.
- Vehicles:
Operating vehicle sound amplification systems audible 50 feet or more away is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lawrence, KS Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Lawrence, KS?
General noise that is plainly audible at an adjacent property line, or 50 feet for multi-family dwellings, is prohibited between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, except on Sundays when the morning hour is 8:00 AM. For construction activity, no work is permitted between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM Monday through Friday, or between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM Saturday through Sunday.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Lawrence, KS?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified in general ordinance. during the day and Not specified in general ordinance. 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 Lawrence, KS?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Lawrence, KS police non-emergency line at (785) 843-0250. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (785) 832-3345.