Wichita, KS Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Wichita, KS?
| Regulation | Details for Wichita, KS |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 316-268-4221 (WPD Case Desk) |
General quiet hours, based on official statements and decibel limit night times, are typically 10 PM to 7 AM. Amplified sound is restricted between 10 PM and 8 AM Sunday through Thursday, and between 11 PM and 8 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Construction is generally prohibited outside of 7 AM to 10 PM.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Wichita, KS Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Wichita, KS?
Wichita, KS noise ordinances, primarily under Chapter 7.41, prohibit excessive sound disturbing public peace. It sets specific decibel limits for residential (50-55 dB), commercial (55-60 dB), and industrial zones, typically enforced from 10 PM to 8 AM (night) and 8 AM to 10 PM (day). Restrictions include amplified sound curfews (10/11 PM to 8 AM) and construction hours (7 AM to 10 PM). Violations are misdemeanors, incurring fines up to $1,000 or six months imprisonment.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dB(A) (8 AM - 10 PM) | 50 dB(A) (10 PM - 8 AM) |
| Commercial | 60 dB(A) (8 AM - 10 PM) | 55 dB(A) (10 PM - 8 AM) |
Note: Measurements are taken at least 25 feet from the property line or noise source. Noise levels cannot exceed background levels by five dB(A) or the set limits, whichever is greater. The Old Town district allows noise levels up to 80 dB(A) if exceeding background by five dB(A). Parks have limits of 60 dB(A) during the day and 55 dB(A) at night. Light Industrial limits are 70 dB(A) day/65 dB(A) night, and Industrial limits are 80 dB(A) day/75 dB(A) night.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction, excavation, demolition, alteration, or repair work is generally prohibited other than between 7 AM and 10 PM. Exceptions may apply in cases of extreme and urgent necessity with a permit from the director of public works.
- Amplified Sound:
The use of radios, loudspeakers, musical instruments, sound amplifiers, or similar devices in a manner that annoys or disturbs reasonable sensibilities is unlawful. Authorization for sound amplifiers is not issued between 10 PM and 8 AM Sunday through Thursday, and between 11 PM and 8 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Amplified sound may not exceed 80 dB(A). Outdoor amplified music may be prohibited in specific conditional use permits.
- Animals:
General excessive or unnecessary noise provisions may apply to persistent animal noise. Wichita Animal Services handles animal-related issues. There are specific penalties for animals running at large.
- Vehicles:
Every vehicle must be equipped, maintained, and operated to prevent excessive or unusual noise, including a muffler or other effective noise-suppressing system; muffler cut-outs or similar devices are prohibited. The use of any vehicle so out of repair or in such a manner as to create loud or unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling, or other noise is prohibited. Vehicles using sound-producing devices for advertising are prohibited in the congested district, with some exceptions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wichita, KS Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Wichita, KS?
General quiet hours, based on official statements and decibel limit night times, are typically 10 PM to 7 AM. Amplified sound is restricted between 10 PM and 8 AM Sunday through Thursday, and between 11 PM and 8 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Construction is generally prohibited outside of 7 AM to 10 PM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Wichita, KS?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dB(A) (8 AM - 10 PM) during the day and 50 dB(A) (10 PM - 8 AM) 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 Wichita, KS?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Wichita, KS police non-emergency line at 316-268-4221 (WPD Case Desk). For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 316-660-9220 (MABCD Neighborhood Inspections).