The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Alexandria, VA
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Industrial areas: up to 70 dB at property line. Public areas (Central Business District): 75 dB(A) (7:00 AM - 11:00 PM) for more than 60 seconds/hour or plainly audible at 50 feet; 65 dB(A) (11:00 PM - 7:00 AM) for more than 60 seconds/hour or plainly audible at 50 feet. General sound exceeding 70 dB at property line/50 feet from vehicle at any time, or 60 dB between 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM."
AI Executive Summary
Alexandria, VA noise ordinances, detailed in City Code Section 11-5, prohibit unreasonably loud noise. Quiet hours are generally 11 PM to 7 AM for public areas. Residential noise is limited to 55 decibels at property lines, while commercial limits are 65 dB (day) and 60 dB (night). Violations can incur civil penalties from $50 to $500. Complaints are handled by the Police Department.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Not permitted between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Amplified Sound
Operation of radio, musical instrument, phonograph, or sound reproducing device prohibited between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM if plainly audible across property boundaries at a distance of 50 feet.
Animals
Dog barking, howling, or baying prohibited between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM if plainly audible in a residential dwelling with closed doors/windows. Between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM, prohibited if plainly audible across real property boundaries for more than five consecutive or non-consecutive minutes in any ten-minute period.
Vehicles
Continual sounding of horn, siren, or other signaling device, except in cases of imminent danger or emergency, is prohibited. General decibel limits also apply to motor vehicles.
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