Springfield, MO Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Springfield, MO?
| Regulation | Details for Springfield, MO |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 911 (for officer response, including non-emergencies like noise complaints); 417-864-1810 (for general inquiries Mon-Fri, 7 am-5 pm). |
11:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general noise in residential districts); 1:30 AM - 6:00 AM (musical instruments, with exceptions)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Springfield, MO Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Springfield, MO?
Springfield, MO's noise ordinance, outlined in Chapter 78, Article IV, Division 2 of the City Code, prohibits unreasonably loud and disturbing noise that interferes with peace or health. Generally, noise from sound-producing devices, yelling, or vehicle sound systems is restricted in residential areas between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if audible beyond property lines. Musical instrument playing has specific limitations from 1:30 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. Enforcement focuses on qualitative nuisance rather than specific decibel limits.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: Springfield's ordinance primarily uses a qualitative standard of "unreasonably loud and disturbing noise" rather than specific decibel levels for general noise control. State law specifies an 86-decibel limit for recreational motorboats.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Loud and continuous noise from construction sites or commercial vehicles during certain hours can be a violation. Construction, demolition, alteration, or repair of any building, or excavation of streets and highways is generally prohibited between one-half hour before sunset and 7:00 a.m., unless a permit is granted by the building inspector due to public health/safety or to prevent loss/inconvenience.
- Amplified Sound:
No person shall play a sound-producing device in a residential district between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if the noise can be heard beyond the property line. Musical instruments are prohibited between 1:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. with exceptions for churches, private homes, fee-charging public buildings, or enclosed structures over 200 feet from dwellings/hospitals. Loud sound amplification systems from vehicles are prohibited if plainly audible at 50 or more feet from the vehicle.
- Animals:
The keeping of any animal, bird, or fowl that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the comfort or repose of any person in the vicinity is prohibited. Dogs must be kept in an enclosed area or on a leash, and vaccinations are required.
- Vehicles:
Noise from sound-producing devices in motor vehicles on public streets in residential districts is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if it can be heard beyond the right-of-way. Discharge of engine exhaust not through an effective muffler or other device to prevent loud or explosive noises is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Springfield, MO Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Springfield, MO?
11:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general noise in residential districts); 1:30 AM - 6:00 AM (musical instruments, with exceptions). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Springfield, MO?
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 Springfield, MO?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Springfield, MO police non-emergency line at 911 (for officer response, including non-emergencies like noise complaints); 417-864-1810 (for general inquiries Mon-Fri, 7 am-5 pm).. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 417-864-1010 (Citizen's Resource Center, Mon-Fri, 8 am-5 pm, or leave message 24/7)..