The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Virginia Beach, 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"Decibel limits for residential areas are measured inside the residence at least four feet from the wall nearest the source, with doors and windows closed. Limits for amplified sound and restaurants are measured in any public area or from other private property."
AI Executive Summary
Virginia Beach's noise ordinance, outlined in Chapter 23, Article II of the City Code, prohibits excessive sound based on decibel limits and a "plainly audible" standard. It sets specific quiet hours for residential areas and restricts activities like amplified sound, construction, and vehicle horns to safeguard public peace and welfare.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Operation of construction equipment (e.g., bulldozers, jackhammers) is prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., unless specifically authorized by the city manager or designee.
Amplified Sound
Playing or operating televisions, stereos, musical instruments, amplifiers, or other sound-producing devices (excluding those in motor vehicles) that exceed 80 dB(A) between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., or 75 dB(A) between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., when measured in a public area or from other private property. Exemptions exist for city-sponsored or permitted events.
Animals
The noise ordinance addresses all pets. Barking dogs can also be enforced under City Code Section 5-532, which may lead to the seizure of the dog.
Vehicles
Sounding any vehicle horn or signaling device continuously or intermittently for more than ten consecutive seconds, except as a danger warning. Emergency signaling devices, security, burglar, and fire alarms, including motor vehicle alarms, are prohibited from continuous or intermittent sounding outdoors for more than ten minutes in residential areas and fifteen minutes in other areas, except in response to a genuine emergency.
Noise-Sensitive Areas
Making unreasonably loud and raucous noise within 200 feet of any school, place of worship, court, hospital, nursing home, or assisted-living facility that substantially interferes with its operations.
Ready to Document?
Unlock evidence tools for Virginia Beach, VA