Manchester, NH Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Manchester, NH?
| Regulation | Details for Manchester, NH |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (603) 668-8711 |
Generally 9 PM to 7 AM for restricted activities.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Manchester, NH Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Manchester, NH?
Manchester, NH's Chapter 94: Noise Regulations prohibits noise disturbances that annoy, disturb, injure, or endanger the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of others. This includes loud, unnecessary, or unusual noises audible across property lines. Specific restrictions apply to construction (generally 9 PM - 7 AM prohibited), motor vehicles, and animals, aiming to preserve community quiet. Violations incur fines, starting at $100.00.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified | Not specified |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: The ordinance (Chapter 94, Sections 94.10 and 94.20) references 'Table A' and 'Table B' for maximum allowable noise levels for premises and motor vehicles, respectively, but the specific decibel values are not provided in the publicly available snippets.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operating any construction equipment or conducting any construction activities between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. is prohibited if it exceeds the noise limits defined in the ordinance. Variances may be granted if daytime construction would interfere with traffic.
- Amplified Sound:
Bells, chimes, and carillons used for religious purposes or national celebrations are exempt, but amplified bell or chime sounds emitted from loudspeakers are not. Generally, loud, unnecessary, or unusual amplified sound that disturbs others is prohibited.
- Animals:
Keeping any animal or bird that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the comfort or repose of a person in a neighboring premises is prohibited. For barking dogs, a log of date, time, and duration for 10-14 days should be created before contacting Animal Control for intervention.
- Vehicles:
Motor vehicle noise levels are measured at 25 feet from the source. Modifying exhaust mufflers, air intake mufflers, or other sound-reducing devices to exceed established sound pressure levels is prohibited. All noise from motor vehicles, including equipment, must comply with standards in Table B (not specified in snippets).
Frequently Asked Questions about Manchester, NH Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Manchester, NH?
Generally 9 PM to 7 AM for restricted activities.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Manchester, NH?
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 Manchester, NH?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Manchester, NH police non-emergency line at (603) 668-8711. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (603) 624-6450.