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Step 1 of 3Newport News, VA
Noise Ordinance Overview
You’ve located the ordinance. Now, compare your situation against the legal thresholds to build your case.
Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"The Newport News noise ordinance primarily relies on a 'plainly audible' standard rather than specific decibel limits. Sound is prohibited if it can be heard by the unaided human ear across property boundaries or inside another person's enclosed dwelling unit during quiet hours, or at a distance of 50 feet or more at any time."
AI Executive Summary
Newport News, VA noise ordinances, specifically Code of Ordinances § 28-36 "Loud noises prohibited," make it unlawful to produce sounds "plainly audible" across property lines or within another's enclosed dwelling between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.. This also applies if sound is plainly audible at 50 feet or more in any direction at any time.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Not specifically defined with separate hours; generally subject to the 'plainly audible' rule of Code of Ordinances § 28-36.
Amplified Sound
It is unlawful to play, use, or operate any television, radio, audio system, musical instrument, loudspeaker, communication, or amplification system such that it is plainly audible across property boundaries or inside another's enclosed dwelling unit between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., or plainly audible at 50 feet or more at any time.
Animals
Noisy animals or birds are considered nuisances as per Code of Ordinances § 28-35 and cross-referenced in § 6-9, generally falling under the 'plainly audible' standard.
Vehicles
Operating an audio system in a motor vehicle such that it is plainly audible across property boundaries or inside another's enclosed dwelling unit between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., or plainly audible at 50 feet or more at any time, is prohibited. Exceptions exist for warning devices like horns or back-up alarms.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Newport News protect residents from noise?
Qualitative standard
Extensive coverage
Standard fines
4 noise categories regulated
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Newport News, VA?
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Newport News's quiet hours: 10 PM to 8 AM. During these hours, noise must stay below residential nighttime decibel limits at the property line. Violations can result in fines on the first offense.
How do I file a noise complaint in Newport News?
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Call the Newport News police non-emergency line at 757-247-2500. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at 757-933-2311. Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Newport News?
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Newport News's noise violation penalties: A violation of Section 28-36 constitutes a Class 2 misdemeanor.. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Newport News?
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Newport News's rules: Noisy animals or birds are considered nuisances as per Code of Ordinances § 28-35 and cross-referenced in § 6-9, generally falling under the 'plainly audible' standard.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at 757-933-8900 or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Newport News?
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Newport News's construction noise rules: Not specifically defined with separate hours; generally subject to the 'plainly audible' rule of Code of Ordinances § 28-36.. Violations can be reported to code enforcement, which can issue stop-work orders for unpermitted or off-hours construction.
Are there rules about loud music in Newport News?
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Yes. Newport News's ordinance: It is unlawful to play, use, or operate any television, radio, audio system, musical instrument, loudspeaker, communication, or amplification system such that it is plainly audible across property boundaries or inside another's enclosed dwelling unit between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., or plainly audible at 50 feet or more at any time.. Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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