Topeka, KS Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Topeka, KS?
| Regulation | Details for Topeka, KS |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 785-368-9551 |
Generally 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM for sound-producing devices, and 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM for construction.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Topeka, KS Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Topeka, KS?
Topeka, KS noise ordinances, primarily found in Chapter 9.45, Article II of the Topeka Municipal Code, prohibit any excessive, unnecessary, unusual, or loud noise that disturbs the comfort, repose, health, or safety of persons of reasonable sensibilities or interferes with property use. Specific restrictions apply to amplified sound, construction activities, and animal-related noise, often defining quiet hours.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: The ordinance does not specify decibel limits but rather uses a 'reasonable sensibilities' standard to determine excessive, unnecessary, unusual, or loud noise.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
The erection, demolition, exterior alteration, or exterior repair of any building or exterior construction project is prohibited between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Exceptions may be granted by the city manager or designee for public health and safety. The operation of pile drivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, steam or electric hoists, or other loud appliances is unlawful between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
- Amplified Sound:
The use or operation of any device capable of producing or amplifying sound in a manner that disturbs the peace, quiet, and comfort of any person of reasonable sensibilities is unlawful. Operation of such a device audible at a distance of 50 feet from the source between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. is prima facie evidence of a violation. Loudspeakers and amplifiers for advertising are also addressed.
- Animals:
It is unlawful to keep or harbor any animal which, by causing frequent or long-continued noise, disturbs the comfort or repose of any persons in the vicinity.
- Vehicles:
The sounding of any horn or signaling device on a vehicle is unlawful except as a danger warning, or if it creates an unreasonably loud or harsh sound, or is sounded for an unnecessary and unreasonable period. The discharge of exhaust from any steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine, motor boat, or motor vehicle into the open air is unlawful except through an effective muffler. The operation of noise-creating blowers, power fans, or internal combustion engines causing noise due to the explosion of operating gases or fluids is unlawful unless muffled.
Frequently Asked Questions about Topeka, KS Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Topeka, KS?
Generally 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM for sound-producing devices, and 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM for construction.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Topeka, KS?
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 Topeka, KS?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Topeka, KS police non-emergency line at 785-368-9551. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 785-368-3161.