Chesapeake, VA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Chesapeake, VA?
| Regulation | Details for Chesapeake, VA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-6:30AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 757-382-6161 |
10:00 PM - 6:30 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Chesapeake, VA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Chesapeake, VA?
Chesapeake, VA's noise ordinance, Article V of the Code of Ordinances, prohibits various plainly audible noises between 10:00 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. the following day. These restrictions apply when sound is audible across property lines, through common walls, or 50 feet or more from the source near residential areas. The ordinance also sets decibel limits, with violations being a Class 4 misdemeanor.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified | Not specified |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: The ordinance refers to maximum dBA and dB sound pressure levels set out in a 'Table 1' which is not provided in the search results. Limits are reduced by 5 dB for impulsive or pure tone noises. Sound pressure levels are measured from the complainant's property.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operating street sweepers or similar machinery, collecting trash/refuse, and loading/unloading trucks/trailers are prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. if plainly audible on residential property 50 feet or more from the source. No work should be done outside regular hours or on Sundays/holidays without prior notification to the Engineer.
- Amplified Sound:
Prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. if plainly audible across property boundaries, through common walls, or 50 feet or more from the source. This includes loudspeakers for commercial advertising, events, instructions, or entertainment. Also, operating musical instruments, televisions, phonographs, and similar devices, including within motor vehicles, is prohibited during these hours.
- Animals:
Permitting animals or fowls to create a public nuisance is prohibited. Law enforcement can exercise remedies under Chapter 10 of the Code for animal noises constituting a public nuisance.
- Vehicles:
Operating any motor vehicle, motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle, mini-bike, moped, scooter, bike, or similar vehicle, or any machine/device powered by an internal combustion engine without a functional muffling device is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. if plainly audible on residential property 50 feet or more from the source. Unnecessary noise in the operation of motor vehicles is also addressed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chesapeake, VA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Chesapeake, VA?
10:00 PM - 6:30 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Chesapeake, VA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified during the day and Not specified 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 Chesapeake, VA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Chesapeake, VA police non-emergency line at 757-382-6161. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 757-382-2489.