Rochester, MN Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Rochester, MN?
| Regulation | Details for Rochester, MN |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 507-328-6800 |
11 PM - 7 AM (for parties/gatherings and general disturbances)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Rochester, MN Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Rochester, MN?
Rochester, MN noise ordinances prohibit loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise that unreasonably disturbs the peace and comfort of residents (Chapter 8-7, Sec. 8-7-8). Specific quiet hours are enforced for gatherings (11 PM-7 AM) and construction activities. Restrictions also cover amplified sound and excessive animal noise, with violations potentially leading to misdemeanor charges.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not explicitly stated in City Code; see notes for state limits. | Not explicitly stated in City Code; see notes for state limits. |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: The City of Rochester's general noise ordinance does not specify decibel limits, focusing on 'unnecessary or unusual noise'. However, Minnesota state noise rules (Minn. R. 7030.0040) for residential areas set limits: L10 = 65 dBA and L50 = 60 dBA during the daytime (7 AM – 10 PM), and L10 = 55 dBA and L50 = 50 dBA during the nighttime (10 PM – 7 AM). Rochester Township, a separate entity, defines 'loud noise' as exceeding approximately 85 dBA at the property boundary as a general guideline.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction work requiring a building permit (including excavation, demolition, alteration, or repair) is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Monday through Saturday. It is also prohibited from 10:00 p.m. Saturday through 12:00 noon Sunday, and from 10:00 p.m. Sunday through 7:00 a.m. Monday. Permits can be obtained for work outside these hours.
- Amplified Sound:
No person shall shout, cry out, blow a horn, ring a bell, or use any sound-amplifying device on public streets, alleys, parks, or other public places, or on private premises where the sound is plainly heard on public places (Sec. 5-14-16). Playing radios, televisions, phonographs, or musical instruments at a volume that disturbs the peace, particularly between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., is prohibited. Sound amplification permits can provide a defense.
- Animals:
It is unlawful for any dog to bark, whine, howl, or make other noise excessively so as to cause annoyance or discomfort to reasonable persons. This applies if the noise lasts for more than five continuous minutes or is intermittent for more than one hour and is plainly audible outside the property where the dog is kept.
- Vehicles:
No specific decibel limits are listed for vehicle noise, but playing any sound-amplifying device in a vehicle in a manner that disturbs the peace, particularly between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rochester, MN Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Rochester, MN?
11 PM - 7 AM (for parties/gatherings and general disturbances). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Rochester, MN?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not explicitly stated in City Code; see notes for state limits. during the day and Not explicitly stated in City Code; see notes for state 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 Rochester, MN?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Rochester, MN police non-emergency line at 507-328-6800. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 507-328-2955 (Zoning Compliance Liaison), 507-328-2600 (Community Development).