What are the quiet hours in Knoxville, TN?

In Knoxville, TN, designated quiet hours are typically 10PM-7AM. During these times, noise must be kept to a minimum.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Knoxville, TN?

For non-emergencies in Knoxville, TN, contact the police at 865-215-4010. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at 311 or 865-215-4311.

Knoxville, TN Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Knoxville, TN?

Regulation	Details for Knoxville, TN
Quiet Hours	10PM-7AM
Weekends	Typically same as weekdays
Enforcement	Police Non-Emergency: 865-215-4010

Quiet hours for residential areas, particularly concerning continuous noise, are from 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM. However, general noise should be kept at a lower level between midnight and 7 AM, and certain activities like operating domestic power equipment are restricted between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

865-215-4010 How to file a complaint →

Knoxville, TN Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Knoxville, TN?

Knoxville, TN noise ordinances, detailed in Chapter 18 of the City Code, establish specific quiet hours and decibel limits based on land use. Residential continuous noise is limited to 60 dB(C) from midnight to 7 AM and 65 dB(C) otherwise. Vehicle noise, amplified sound, and domestic power equipment also have restrictions. Enforcement is handled by KPD and Code Enforcement.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Knoxville, TN
Zone Type	Day	Night
Residential	65 dB(C) (continuous), 80 dB(C) (impulsive) between 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight	60 dB(C) (continuous), 80 dB(C) (impulsive) between 12:00 midnight and 7:00 a.m.
Commercial	80 dB(C) (continuous), 80 dB(C) (impulsive) between 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight	75 dB(C) (continuous), 80 dB(C) (impulsive) between 12:00 midnight and 7:00 a.m.

Note: Limits are C-weighted sound pressure levels. Industrial use has a limit of 80 dB(C) for continuous or impulsive sound at all times. Sound from any source within a public premise is limited to 65 dB(C) (continuous) or 80 dB(C) (impulsive) when measured from approximately 20 feet from the source.

Specific Restrictions

Construction:
Operation of domestic power equipment (including power lawn mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers, snowblowers, tillers, saws, sanders, drills, or similar devices) is restricted between 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Amplified Sound:
Food trucks are not allowed to use amplification devices. Motor vehicle audio equipment (radio, tape player, etc.) is restricted if audible to a person of normal hearing sensitivity more than 50 feet from the vehicle on public streets or more than 50 feet outside the real property boundary on private property. Outdoor entertainment may be allowed with adherence to appropriate noise levels and may require a permit.
Animals:
Animal-related concerns, including animal welfare and nuisance animals, can be reported to Animal Services. Knox County Animal Services typically handles domestic animal issues and may assist with wildlife concerns.
Vehicles:
Every motor vehicle must be equipped with a muffler in good working order to prevent excessive or unusual noise; muffler cutouts, bypasses, or similar devices are prohibited. Excessive road noise, engine revving, aggressive driving, and illegally modified mufflers are subjects of enforcement efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Knoxville, TN Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Knoxville, TN?

How loud can I play music in Knoxville, TN?

Residential areas typically have a limit of 65 dB(C) (continuous), 80 dB(C) (impulsive) between 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight during the day and 60 dB(C) (continuous), 80 dB(C) (impulsive) between 12:00 midnight and 7:00 a.m. 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 Knoxville, TN?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Knoxville, TN police non-emergency line at 865-215-4010. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 311 or 865-215-4311.

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