The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Williamsburg, VA
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Street performances on public streets/right-of-ways are limited to 65 dB at 15 feet between 9 AM and 9 PM. Non-emergency periodic maintenance of permanently installed emergency electric generators shall not exceed 68 dB when measured within 3 feet."
AI Executive Summary
Williamsburg, VA noise ordinances (Chapter 12, Article V) prohibit excessive sounds, including amplified music and yelling, particularly between 11 PM and 7 AM. Residential decibel limits are 65 dB (day) and 55 dB (night). Construction noise is restricted 7 PM to 7 AM. Violations incur fines of $300 for a first offense, increasing to $500 for subsequent infractions.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Operation of construction equipment (e.g., chain saws, pile drivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, steam or electric hoists) is prohibited between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Amplified Sound
Operating loudspeakers, public address systems, or mobile sound vehicles is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if plainly audible across a residential property line or through common partitions. Portable personal sound equipment must not be plainly audible at 50 feet between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., and not plainly audible to anyone other than the operator between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Street performances are limited to 65 decibels at 15 feet between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Animals
It is unlawful for a dog to bark in a continuous or untimely manner so as to disturb the peace. Noisy companion animals (any animal) are prohibited from creating sound plainly audible across property boundaries or inside another's dwelling unit between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., or plainly audible 50 feet or more from the animal during these hours, or for at least one minute for ten consecutive minutes.
Vehicles
Operation of a motor vehicle or motorcycle creating mechanical or exhaust noise plainly audible at 200 feet or more. Operation of sound amplifying equipment in a motor vehicle at a volume plainly audible at 50 feet from the vehicle. Sounding horns, whistles, or other auditory devices except as a warning of danger is prohibited. Operation of a refuse collection vehicle within 100 feet of a residence is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
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