Richmond, VA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Richmond, VA?
| Regulation | Details for Richmond, VA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (804) 646-5100 |
11:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Richmond, VA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Richmond, VA?
Richmond, VA's Sound Control Ordinance (Ord. 2022-219, amended by Ord. 2024-194) prohibits excessive noise, with residential limits of 65 dBA during the day (7 AM-11 PM) and 55 dBA at night (11 PM-7 AM) measured outdoors or inside multifamily units. Violations incur civil penalties, starting at $100 and escalating for repeat offenses.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 65 dBA (7AM-11PM) | 55 dBA (11PM-7AM) |
| Commercial | 80 dBA (7AM-11PM) or 65 dBA if adjacent to residential | 75 dBA (11PM-7AM) or 55 dBA if adjacent to residential |
Note: Residential limits are measured outdoors at single-family/duplex properties or inside multifamily units. Commercial limits apply to restaurants/establishments.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Prohibited between 7:00 PM and 7:00 AM, except for emergency repairs. Landscaping activities are also prohibited in residential areas between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
- Amplified Sound:
Unlawful for motor vehicles to play amplified sound plainly audible at 50 feet. Musical instruments or devices outside an enclosed structure cannot exceed 75 dBA (7AM-11PM) or 65 dBA (11PM-7AM) at 10 feet. Noncommercial use of sound amplifying equipment permitted 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM.
- Animals:
Unlawful for any animal or bird to create sound plainly audible at least once a minute for ten consecutive minutes inside another's dwelling or at least 50 feet away. Roosters are not permitted in residential districts.
- Vehicles:
Playing amplified sound plainly audible at 50 feet from a motor vehicle is unlawful. Refuse collection limited to 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions about Richmond, VA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Richmond, VA?
11:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Richmond, VA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 65 dBA (7AM-11PM) during the day and 55 dBA (11PM-7AM) 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 Richmond, VA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Richmond, VA police non-emergency line at (804) 646-5100. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at Refer to nonEmergencyPolice or RVA311.