Suffolk, VA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Suffolk, VA?
| Regulation | Details for Suffolk, VA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-6AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 757-923-2350 |
10:00 PM - 6:00 AM (for construction/vehicle loading near dwellings)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Suffolk, VA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Suffolk, VA?
Suffolk, VA noise ordinances, under Chapter 34, Article V of the City Code, prohibit excessive noise deemed a Class 2 misdemeanor and a public nuisance. Key restrictions include sounds plainly audible across property lines or 50 feet from a source, and specific nighttime limitations on construction and vehicle operations near residences. Civil penalties can reach $250 for a first offense and $500 for subsequent violations.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified, but noise plainly audible across residential property boundary is prohibited. | Not specified, but noise plainly audible across residential property boundary is prohibited. |
| Commercial | Not specified, but noise plainly audible across commercial property boundary is prohibited. | Not specified, but noise plainly audible across commercial property boundary is prohibited. |
Note: The ordinance primarily uses a 'plainly audible' standard and prohibits 'excessive noise' rather than specific decibel limits for general application. A specific ordinance for solar energy facilities mentions a 45 dBA limit at residential property lines.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operating or causing to be operated any equipment for construction, repair, alteration, or demolition work outdoors in any zoning district within 100 yards of a lawfully occupied dwelling is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
- Amplified Sound:
Operating, playing, or permitting any radio, amplifier, television, musical instrument, or similar device in such a manner or volume as to permit sound to be heard across a residential or commercial real property boundary, through partition walls common to two dwelling units, or plainly audible 50 feet or more from its source. Indoor live entertainment as an accessory use is permitted between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
- Animals:
The general 'excessive noise' provision would apply to animal noise, but no specific restrictions beyond that are detailed in the primary noise ordinance. Animal Control handles related issues.
- Vehicles:
Operating, loading, or unloading any vehicle (including trucks) in the outdoors in zones other than industrial within 100 yards of a lawfully occupied dwelling is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Using any vehicle so out of repair, loaded, or operated to create loud and unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling, or other noise plainly audible 50 feet or more from its source is prohibited. Exhaust systems must be in good working order to prevent excessive or unusual noise and must include a muffler.
Frequently Asked Questions about Suffolk, VA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Suffolk, VA?
10:00 PM - 6:00 AM (for construction/vehicle loading near dwellings). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Suffolk, VA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified, but noise plainly audible across residential property boundary is prohibited. during the day and Not specified, but noise plainly audible across residential property boundary is prohibited. 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 Suffolk, VA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Suffolk, VA police non-emergency line at 757-923-2350. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 757-514-4150.