Greensboro, NC Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Greensboro, NC?
| Regulation | Details for Greensboro, NC |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 6PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 336-373-2222 |
Quiet hours for construction in residential districts are 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., and in non-residential districts are 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Outdoor amplified sound is prohibited from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with exceptions for major holidays.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Greensboro, NC Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Greensboro, NC?
Greensboro, NC noise ordinances, outlined in Sec. 18-48 and 18-49, prohibit unreasonably loud or disturbing noises that annoy, disturb, injure, or endanger citizens' comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety. The city aims to secure public health and welfare by regulating noise disturbances. Recent revisions have eliminated specific decibel limits in favor of a "reasonable person" standard.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified | Not specified |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: Greensboro has moved away from specific decibel limits towards a 'reasonable person' standard for noise enforcement. A noise disturbance is presumed to exist if the sound exceeds maximum lawful decibel limits at a property boundary within residential zoning districts.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Erection, demolition, alteration, or repair of any building (including excavation and grading) in a residential district is prohibited between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. In any district other than residential, these activities are prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
- Amplified Sound:
It is unlawful for any person to cause sound to emanate from a loudspeaker or amplifier if audible at a distance exceeding 150 feet. Any sound amplification outside any building or structure is outlawed from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with exceptions for major holidays.
- Animals:
Guilford County Animal Control enforces animal laws and ordinances, and picks up stray and injured animals.
- Vehicles:
While no specific vehicle hours are listed, the general ordinance prohibits unreasonably loud or disturbing noise. If music or noise from a vehicle can be heard 30 feet away, it is considered unreasonably loud and disturbing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Greensboro, NC Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Greensboro, NC?
Quiet hours for construction in residential districts are 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., and in non-residential districts are 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Outdoor amplified sound is prohibited from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with exceptions for major holidays.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Greensboro, NC?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified during the day and Not specified 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 Greensboro, NC?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Greensboro, NC police non-emergency line at 336-373-2222. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 336-373-2111.