Lexington, KY Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Lexington, KY?
| Regulation | Details for Lexington, KY |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM (weekdays), 11PM-9AM (weekends) |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (859) 258-3600 |
11 PM - 7 AM (weekdays), 11 PM - 9 AM (weekends for power tools/lawn mowers)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Lexington, KY Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Lexington, KY?
Lexington, KY noise ordinances (Sections 14-70 to 14-80) prohibit any sound that annoys or disturbs a reasonable person, or endangers human/animal health or property. Quiet hours are generally 11 PM to 7 AM on weekdays, extending to 9 AM on Saturdays and Sundays for certain power tools. Violations carry fines ranging from $50 to $500.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: Lexington's ordinance does not specify decibel limits, but defines noise disturbance as any sound that annoys a reasonable person, or endangers health/property. The city has considered exploring decibel readers.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operating tools or equipment used in construction, drilling, or demolition work is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.. Domestic power tools, including lawn mowers, are prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. any day, and before 9:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
- Amplified Sound:
Music by radio, television, musical instruments, or similar devices creating a noise disturbance is prohibited at any time. Non-commercial loudspeakers, public address systems, or similar devices are restricted between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if they create a noise disturbance across a dwelling unit boundary. Playing a motor vehicle stereo or similar device so loudly that it creates a continuous noise disturbance 50 feet away on a public right-of-way or public space is unlawful.
- Animals:
It is unlawful to keep an animal, including domestic pets, that repeatedly or frequently emits sounds (like barking, yelping, howling) creating a noise disturbance across a dwelling unit boundary, annoying a reasonable person. 'Barking dogs, anytime' is specifically prohibited if it creates a noise disturbance.
- Vehicles:
Repairing, testing, or operating any motor vehicle, motorcycle, motorbike, or motorboat is prohibited anytime if it creates a noise disturbance across a dwelling unit boundary. Motor vehicle stereos creating a continuous noise disturbance audible 50 feet away on a public right-of-way or public space are unlawful. Kentucky state law also requires suitable mufflers and prohibits modifications that amplify noise above the original muffler.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lexington, KY Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Lexington, KY?
11 PM - 7 AM (weekdays), 11 PM - 9 AM (weekends for power tools/lawn mowers). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Lexington, KY?
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 Lexington, KY?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Lexington, KY police non-emergency line at (859) 258-3600. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (859) 258-3600 (Police handles noise violations); or 311 for general complaints.