What are the quiet hours in Cincinnati, OH?

In Cincinnati, OH, designated quiet hours are typically 11PM-7AM. During these times, noise must be kept to a minimum.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Cincinnati, OH?

For non-emergencies in Cincinnati, OH, contact the police at 513-765-1212 or 311. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at 513-591-6000 or 311.

Cincinnati, OH Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Cincinnati, OH?

Regulation	Details for Cincinnati, OH
Quiet Hours	11PM-7AM
Weekends	Typically same as weekdays
Enforcement	Police Non-Emergency: 513-765-1212 or 311

11 PM to 7 AM (for construction and demolition, general loud music is also restricted after 11 PM)

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

513-765-1212 or 311 How to file a complaint →

Cincinnati, OH Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Cincinnati, OH?

Cincinnati, OH noise ordinances, primarily found in the Cincinnati Municipal Code Chapter 909 and Section 910, prohibit loud, raucous, or excessive sounds disturbing neighborhood peace or interfering with business. Construction and demolition are restricted between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM near residences without a special permit. Vehicle noise is regulated, including amplified sound plainly audible at 50 feet. Violations typically constitute misdemeanors, with fines and potential vehicle impoundment.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Cincinnati, OH
Zone Type	Day	Night
Residential	Varies by zoning district (55-75 dB(A) overall range)	Varies by zoning district (55-75 dB(A) overall range)
Commercial	Varies by zoning district (55-75 dB(A) overall range)	Varies by zoning district (55-75 dB(A) overall range)

Note: Decibel limits are measured in Leq dB(A) over a minimum of six minutes and vary by specific zoning district as outlined in the full ordinance tables. Vehicles may not exceed 95 decibels.

Specific Restrictions

Construction:
Construction and demolition activities, or the operation of loud mechanical, electrical, or battery-operated apparatus, are prohibited between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM the following day within 500 feet of residences, hospitals, or other residential institutions, unless a special permit is obtained.
Amplified Sound:
Operating any sound-producing or sound-amplifying instrument to emit loud and raucous noises or create sound that disturbs the peace and quiet of a neighborhood, or interferes with business, is prohibited. Loud music from a car is prohibited if plainly audible at 50 feet or if it creates unreasonable noise. Restaurants and entertainment venues must not permit music, singing, loud talking, or amplified sound to disturb neighborhood peace.
Animals:
No person shall create or permit noise from any source, including animals, that disturbs the peace and quiet of a neighborhood. Hamilton County Animal Services handles complaints about dangerous or barking dogs.
Vehicles:
Excessive sound from motor vehicles, including radios, phonographs, televisions, tape players, and loudspeakers, is prohibited if it creates unreasonable noise or is plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet. Vehicles operating on a street or highway may not emit sound in excess of 95 decibels. Mufflers are required to be in good working order; muffler cutouts or similar devices are prohibited. Horns are only for accident prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cincinnati, OH Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Cincinnati, OH?

11 PM to 7 AM (for construction and demolition, general loud music is also restricted after 11 PM). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Cincinnati, OH?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Varies by zoning district (55-75 dB(A) overall range) during the day and Varies by zoning district (55-75 dB(A) overall range) 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 Cincinnati, OH?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Cincinnati, OH police non-emergency line at 513-765-1212 or 311. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 513-591-6000 or 311.

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