Wilmington, NC Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Wilmington, NC?
| Regulation | Details for Wilmington, NC |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 910-452-6120 |
Generally, 11 PM to 7 AM on weekdays. Residential, commercial/industrial, and downtown areas extend daytime limits until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Downtown has a 70 dB(A) limit between midnight and 2 AM on Saturday and Sunday.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Wilmington, NC Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Wilmington, NC?
Wilmington, NC noise ordinances, outlined in Article II, Sections 6-26 to 6-34 of the City Code, establish specific decibel limits and quiet hours for residential, commercial, and downtown areas. Permits are required for activities expected to exceed these limits. Violations can result in fines up to $500 and/or 30 days imprisonment.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 65 dB(A) (7 AM - 11 PM, or until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays) | 55 dB(A) (11 PM - 7 AM, or midnight to 7 AM on Fridays and Saturdays) |
| Commercial | 75 dB(A) (7 AM - 11 PM, or until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays) | 70 dB(A) (11 PM - 7 AM, or midnight to 7 AM on Fridays and Saturdays) |
Note: Downtown area limits are 75 dB(A) during the day (7 AM - 11 PM, or until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays) and 65 dB(A) at night (11 PM - 7 AM, or midnight to 7 AM on Fridays and Saturdays), with a 70 dB(A) limit between midnight and 2 AM on Saturday and Sunday.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction activity performed by a government agency is exempt if equipment is operated to manufacturer's specifications with noise-reducing equipment. General construction is expected to adhere to the standard noise ordinance hours and decibel limits, typically restricted during quiet hours.
- Amplified Sound:
Permits are required for amplified sound expected to exceed sound level or time limits, applied through the Wilmington Police Department at least five business days prior. A noise disturbance is presumed if sound is 'plainly audible' within an occupied structure not the source, or within 66 feet of a commercial property line.
- Animals:
Animal complaints are directed to the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office Animal Services Unit. Keeping chickens on residential properties within city limits requires a poultry permit and a property size of at least 15,000 square feet.
- Vehicles:
Junked vehicles are prohibited on residential zoned property unless stored in a rear yard with an approved cover. Abandoned vehicles left over seven days on a street or over two hours on private property without consent are prohibited. Complaints about boats/RVs parked in the street go to the Wilmington Police Department.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wilmington, NC Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Wilmington, NC?
Generally, 11 PM to 7 AM on weekdays. Residential, commercial/industrial, and downtown areas extend daytime limits until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Downtown has a 70 dB(A) limit between midnight and 2 AM on Saturday and Sunday.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Wilmington, NC?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 65 dB(A) (7 AM - 11 PM, or until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays) during the day and 55 dB(A) (11 PM - 7 AM, or midnight to 7 AM on Fridays and Saturdays) 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 Wilmington, NC?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Wilmington, NC police non-emergency line at 910-452-6120. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 910-341-3266.