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Step 1 of 3Winston-Salem, NC
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Decibel limits for sound amplification equipment are measured at the nearest residentially occupied property line, with 55 dB(A) allowed between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. and 50 dB(A) between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.. Construction machinery exceeding 60 dB(A) at a residential property line is prohibited. The city is currently reviewing its noise rules for commercial venues due to subjective current regulations."
AI Executive Summary
Winston-Salem, NC noise ordinances, outlined in Chapter 46, prohibit unreasonably loud and disturbing noise by largely incorporating the Forsyth County "Loud and disturbing noise" ordinance. Key restrictions target amplified sound, animal noise, and certain residential activities like operating power tools and refuse collection during nighttime hours, particularly from 11 PM to 7 AM, to protect the quiet comfort of residents.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Operation of construction machinery registering more than 60 dB(A) at a residential property line is prohibited. Exemptions exist for emergency utility repairs by government entities between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. when daytime work is impractical.
Amplified Sound
Unlawful to operate or play any radio, tape player, or similar device that amplifies sound to create disturbing or frightening noise at 100 feet from the device or vehicle in a public right-of-way or public space. Playing of amplified sound is restricted, particularly between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., if it annoys or disturbs residents.
Animals
The keeping of any animal that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the quiet comfort and repose of reasonable persons in the vicinity is prohibited.
Vehicles
Use of any automobile, motorcycle, or other vehicle so out of repair, loaded, or operated in a manner to create loud grating, grinding, rattling, or other disturbing noise is prohibited. Unnecessary sounding of horns or signal devices is also prohibited.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Winston-Salem protect residents from noise?
55 dB day / 50 dB night
Extensive coverage
Strong penalties with escalation
4 noise categories regulated
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Winston-Salem, NC?
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Winston-Salem's quiet hours: Specific residential activities are prohibited between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Amplified sound impacting residential areas is particularly restricted between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM.. During these hours, noise must stay below residential nighttime decibel limits at the property line. Violations can result in fines on the first offense.
What are the noise decibel limits in Winston-Salem?
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Winston-Salem's residential noise limits: 55 dB(A) dB(A) during the day and 50 dB(A) dB(A) at night. Commercial zones allow Not specified. Limits are measured at the receiving property line.
How do I file a noise complaint in Winston-Salem?
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Call the Winston-Salem police non-emergency line at 336-727-8000. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at 336-727-8000. Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Winston-Salem?
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Winston-Salem's noise violation penalties: A violation of the noise ordinance is a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than $500.00 or imprisonment for not more than 30 days.. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Winston-Salem?
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Winston-Salem's rules: The keeping of any animal that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the quiet comfort and repose of reasonable persons in the vicinity is prohibited.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at 336-727-8000 or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Winston-Salem?
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Winston-Salem's construction noise rules: Operation of construction machinery registering more than 60 dB(A) at a residential property line is prohibited. Exemptions exist for emergency utility repairs by government entities between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. when daytime work is impractical.. Violations can be reported to code enforcement, which can issue stop-work orders for unpermitted or off-hours construction.
Are there rules about loud music in Winston-Salem?
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Yes. Winston-Salem's ordinance: Unlawful to operate or play any radio, tape player, or similar device that amplifies sound to create disturbing or frightening noise at 100 feet from the device or vehicle in a public right-of-way or public space. Playing of amplified sound is restricted, particularly between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., if it annoys or disturbs residents.. Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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