Columbus, OH Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Columbus, OH?
| Regulation | Details for Columbus, OH |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (614) 645-4545 |
Generally, residential quiet hours for amplified sound are 10 PM to 7 AM. Construction and lawn maintenance are typically permitted between 7 AM and 10 PM. Yelling or shouting on public streets is limited from 11 PM to 7 AM. Permitted events have specific hours (e.g., 12 AM - 8 AM restrictions for noise permit holders).
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Columbus, OH Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Columbus, OH?
Columbus, OH noise ordinances (Columbus City Codes Section 2329.11) prohibit unreasonably loud or raucous noise disturbing ordinary sensibilities. Specific rules apply to residential areas, including amplified sound not heard 50 feet away and maintaining an average hourly maximum sound level below 60 dB from 10 PM to 7 AM. Violations are misdemeanors, with increased penalties for repeat offenses.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified (based on 'unreasonably loud/raucous noise') | 60 dB from 10 PM to 7 AM (for amplified sound at property line) |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: Decibel limits for general noise are not explicitly stated, rather based on 'unreasonably loud and/or raucous noise' disturbing 'ordinary sensibilities'.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Permitted between 7 AM and 10 PM.
- Amplified Sound:
In residential zones, sound amplification systems should not be heard 50 feet beyond the property line. An average hourly maximum sound level should not exceed 60 dB from 10 PM to 7 AM.
- Animals:
Loud animals are regulated, contributing to prohibited noise.
- Vehicles:
The ordinance regulates 'loud animals, vehicles, construction equipment, loudspeakers and musical instruments'.
Frequently Asked Questions about Columbus, OH Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Columbus, OH?
Generally, residential quiet hours for amplified sound are 10 PM to 7 AM. Construction and lawn maintenance are typically permitted between 7 AM and 10 PM. Yelling or shouting on public streets is limited from 11 PM to 7 AM. Permitted events have specific hours (e.g., 12 AM - 8 AM restrictions for noise permit holders).. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Columbus, OH?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified (based on 'unreasonably loud/raucous noise') during the day and 60 dB from 10 PM to 7 AM (for amplified sound at property line) 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 Columbus, OH?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Columbus, OH police non-emergency line at (614) 645-4545. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 311 or (614) 645-3111.