Grand Rapids, MI Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Grand Rapids, MI?
| Regulation | Details for Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 616-456-3400 |
Generally, prohibited noises are restricted between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. This includes musical instruments in public, construction operations within 600 feet of residences/hospitals, and residential disturbances (sounds audible 25 feet away). Amplified sound across residential property lines is also prohibited during these hours. Commercial/entertainment business sound audible 100 feet away is restricted from 10 p.m. (weeknights) or 1 a.m. (weekends) until 7 a.m.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Grand Rapids, MI Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Grand Rapids, MI?
Grand Rapids, MI, noise ordinances (Article 5 of Chapter 151, "Noise Control Ordinance") aim to abate loud, unnecessary, and unusual noises. It sets maximum noise limits for vehicles, construction, and general environmental sounds. Prohibitions include amplified sound near healthcare facilities, excessive barking, and certain construction activities during nighttime hours.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dB(A) | 48 dB(A) |
| Commercial | 62 dB(A) | 55 dB(A) |
Note: Maximum nighttime sound pressure levels (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) are 7 dB lower than daytime steady noise for each octave band center frequency. These A-scale levels (slow response) are used for monitoring. The 'peace and tranquility' clause (Sec. 9.63(3)) was declared unconstitutionally vague, meaning compliance with decibel limits does not prevent citation for disturbing the peace.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
General construction/demolition operations using mechanical apparatus (e.g., pile drivers, shovels) are prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. within 600 feet of a residence or hospital, except for essential services.
- Amplified Sound:
No person shall make or permit any noise distinctly and loudly audible on a public way, including crying, shouting, or using musical instruments, radios, or sound amplifying devices, except for licensed peddlers or authorized parades. Musical instruments/devices are prohibited in public ways/places before 7:00 a.m. or after 10:00 p.m. Amplified sound on public property cannot exceed average conversational level from 100 feet away. A new ordinance bans all amplified sound within 100 feet of a healthcare hospital or clinic, effective 30 days from January 13, 2026.
- Animals:
No person shall own any dog which, by loud, frequent, or habitual barking, yelping, or howling, causes annoyance to people in the neighborhood.
- Vehicles:
Activating a horn or audible signal device on a motor vehicle is prohibited except as a warning of danger. Operating a motor vehicle weighing over 5 tons (10,000 pounds) for more than two consecutive minutes while stationary on private property within 150 feet of residential uses is prohibited, unless providing essential services. Selling new motor vehicles exceeding specific noise limits at 50 feet is also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Grand Rapids, MI Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Grand Rapids, MI?
Generally, prohibited noises are restricted between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. This includes musical instruments in public, construction operations within 600 feet of residences/hospitals, and residential disturbances (sounds audible 25 feet away). Amplified sound across residential property lines is also prohibited during these hours. Commercial/entertainment business sound audible 100 feet away is restricted from 10 p.m. (weeknights) or 1 a.m. (weekends) until 7 a.m.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Grand Rapids, MI?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dB(A) during the day and 48 dB(A) 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 Grand Rapids, MI?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Grand Rapids, MI police non-emergency line at 616-456-3400. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 616-456-3053.