Cranston, RI Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Cranston, RI?
| Regulation | Details for Cranston, RI |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 401-942-2211 |
10PM-7AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Cranston, RI Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Cranston, RI?
Cranston, RI's noise ordinance, Chapter 8.20 of the Code of Ordinances, aims to prevent excessive and annoying noise to protect public welfare. It prohibits various disturbances, including loud shouting between 12 AM and 7 AM, restricts amplified sound, and sets specific decibel limits for residential and commercial areas, with general quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dBA (7AM-10PM) | 50 dBA (10PM-7AM) |
| Commercial | 65 dBA (7AM-10PM) | Not specified (subject to Table A, generally lower than day) |
Note: Decibel limits are specified in 'Table A' of Chapter 8.20, with day defined as 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM and night as 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. For industrial and public properties, daytime limits are 75 dBA. Commercial power equipment limits are 88 dBA (25ft) during 7 AM-8 PM, and domestic power equipment limits are 80 dBA (25ft) during 7 AM-8 PM, otherwise subject to Table A.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction and tree maintenance equipment operation is permitted on residential, commercial, industrial, or public premises between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Operation between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. must not exceed Table A sound pressure levels.
- Amplified Sound:
Personal or commercial music amplification equipment must not be plainly audible or disturb at 50 feet between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Between 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., it must not be plainly audible at 25 feet. Portable equipment on public spaces must not be plainly audible at 50 feet between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., and only audible to the operator between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
- Animals:
Keeping any dog or domestic animal that disturbs the public peace by barking, biting, howling, or yelping is unlawful and considered a nuisance. A summons can be issued based on two formal complaints from separate domiciles or an officer witnessing the nuisance.
- Vehicles:
Repairing, rebuilding, modifying, or testing motor vehicles/motorboats that causes a noise disturbance across a property boundary or in a noise-sensitive area is prohibited. Vehicle horns should only be sounded as a warning to prevent accidents. Truck idling over 10 minutes on or next to residential premises is prohibited. Motor vehicle noise limits are 86 dBA for speed zones of 35 mph or less, and 90 dBA for speed zones over 35 mph, measured at 50 feet.
- Shouting/Loud Conversation:
Between 12:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., excessive vocal amplification in a residential zone that is plainly audible at 100 feet for more than 10 seconds is prohibited.
- Powered Model Vehicles:
Operation of powered model vehicles in public or private outdoor spaces or noise-sensitive areas is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
- Refuse Pickup:
Refuse pickup or removal from commercial or industrial establishments located within 200 feet of a dwelling is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cranston, RI Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Cranston, RI?
10PM-7AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Cranston, RI?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dBA (7AM-10PM) during the day and 50 dBA (10PM-7AM) 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 Cranston, RI?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Cranston, RI police non-emergency line at 401-942-2211. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 401-461-1000 (City Hall), 401-780-6017 (Director of Building Inspections), 401-780-6056 (Building Inspections).