Minneapolis, MN Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Minneapolis, MN?

General quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, though specific activities have varying permitted times. For indoor residential noise, nighttime is 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Minneapolis, MN Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Minneapolis, MN?

Minneapolis, MN noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 389 of the Code, establish quiet hours typically from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM for many activities. Violations are determined by decibel levels above ambient noise, referencing Minnesota Rules, Chapter 7030, and include specific restrictions for construction, amplified sound, and vehicles. Penalties range from fines up to $1,000 to potential jail time or loss of rental licenses.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Minneapolis, MN
Zone TypeDayNight
ResidentialOutdoor: L10 = 65 dBA, L50 = 60 dBA (7:00 AM - 10:00 PM). Indoor: 10 dB(C) Leq above ambient (6:00 AM - 10:00 PM).Outdoor: L10 = 55 dBA, L50 = 50 dBA (10:00 PM - 7:00 AM). Indoor: 5 dB(C) Leq above ambient (10:00 PM - 6:00 AM).
CommercialNot explicitly detailed, but outdoor sound is generally five (5) dB(A) or more above ambient noise levels between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.. Amplified sound for standard/large event permits not to exceed 90 dB(A) at 50 feet from source, or 15 dB(A) above ambient off-property. Small event permits not to exceed 80 dB(A) at 50 feet, or 10 dB(A) above ambient off-property.Not explicitly detailed, but outdoor sound is generally five (5) dB(A) or more above ambient noise levels between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.. Amplified sound event permits have restrictions; standard/small event permits not issued past 9:00 p.m. on Sundays within 500 feet of residential property or religious institutions.

Note: Minneapolis ordinances reference Minnesota Rules, Chapter 7030, for outdoor noise levels, which use L10 and L50 calculations (sound level exceeded 10% and 50% of an hour, respectively). Indoor measurements within a dwelling use C-weighted equivalent continuous sound level (Leq) above ambient.

Specific Restrictions

  • Construction:

    General construction/demolition is allowed weekdays from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. After-hours permits are required for Saturday or Sunday work. Homeowners performing work do not need a permit for weekdays from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and weekends from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Construction equipment sound levels shall not exceed 90 decibels measured at 50 feet or more from the source, unless conforming to Minnesota Rules Chapter 7030.

  • Amplified Sound:

    Outdoor amplified sound audible above conversation beyond 50 feet typically requires a permit. Permit hours are generally 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, extendable to 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Standard and small event permits are not issued past 9:00 PM on Sundays if within 500 feet of a residential property or religious institution. Sounds of religious worship, such as bells, chimes, or amplified call to prayer, are allowed within specified limits (e.g., 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM for chimes), with the amplified call to prayer having no time constraints.

  • Animals:

    Noise from barking dogs or other pets can be reported to 311. If a violation is verified, a citation may be issued.

  • Vehicles:

    Sound from motor vehicle sound systems or audio systems clearly audible beyond 50 feet is illegal. Modified exhausts that increase noise are banned (Ordinance 389.190), and engine braking is banned on I-394 (Ordinance 474.125).

  • Outdoor Implements:

    Use of power lawnmowers, trimmers, saws, leaf blowers, or similar tools is allowed from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Snowblowers and snowplows are allowed anytime during an official snow emergency or within 24 hours of a snowfall of 1 inch or more.

  • Garbage Collection:

    Garbage pickup noise is allowed from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM if within 500 feet of a residence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Minneapolis, MN Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Minneapolis, MN?

General quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, though specific activities have varying permitted times. For indoor residential noise, nighttime is 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Minneapolis, MN?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Outdoor: L10 = 65 dBA, L50 = 60 dBA (7:00 AM - 10:00 PM). Indoor: 10 dB(C) Leq above ambient (6:00 AM - 10:00 PM). during the day and Outdoor: L10 = 55 dBA, L50 = 50 dBA (10:00 PM - 7:00 AM). Indoor: 5 dB(C) Leq above ambient (10:00 PM - 6:00 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 Minneapolis, MN?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Minneapolis, MN police non-emergency line at 311 or 612-673-3000 (general non-emergency City information). For tips, 612-673-5335.. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 311 or 612-673-3000 (general City information and reporting)..

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