Charlottesville, VA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Charlottesville, VA?
| Regulation | Details for Charlottesville, VA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-6AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 434-970-3280 |
10PM-6AM (residential)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Charlottesville, VA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Charlottesville, VA?
Charlottesville, VA noise ordinances, codified in City Code Chapter 16, prohibit excessive sound disturbing public peace and welfare. Residential zones have limits of 55 dB(A) from 10 PM to 6 AM and 65 dB(A) from 6 AM to 10 PM. Amplified sound from vehicles and certain commercial establishments also have specific restrictions and decibel limits during nighttime hours.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 65 dB(A) (6 AM - 10 PM) | 55 dB(A) (10 PM - 6 AM) |
| Commercial | Not specified for general commercial | 75 dB(A) (11 PM - 6 AM) for restaurants/music halls, but 55 dB(A) in Neighborhood Commercial Corridor district (Sec. 34-541) |
Note: Decibel levels are measured at or outside the property boundary.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Exempt from regulation during daytime hours. Between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. in residential zones, construction noise must not exceed 55 dB(A).
- Amplified Sound:
Operating any amplified sound device in a motor vehicle that disturbs the peace between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., audible at 100 feet or more, is a violation. Restaurants and music halls have specific nighttime decibel limits.
- Animals:
Noise complaints, including those for barking dogs, are handled by the non-emergency police. Some ordinances may consider continuous barking for 30 minutes or more, with no pauses greater than 5 minutes, as a violation during quiet hours.
- Vehicles:
Amplified sound from motor vehicles that disturbs the peace is prohibited, particularly between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. if audible from 100 feet or more.
Frequently Asked Questions about Charlottesville, VA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Charlottesville, VA?
10PM-6AM (residential). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Charlottesville, VA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 65 dB(A) (6 AM - 10 PM) during the day and 55 dB(A) (10 PM - 6 AM) 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 Charlottesville, VA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Charlottesville, VA police non-emergency line at 434-970-3280. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 434-970-3182 (Neighborhood Development Services for general code; noise complaints to non-emergency police).