Burlington, VT Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Burlington, VT?
| Regulation | Details for Burlington, VT |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (802) 658-2704 |
10PM-7AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Burlington, VT Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Burlington, VT?
Burlington, VT's noise ordinance prohibits unreasonable noise 24 hours a day, particularly emphasizing special "quiet hours" from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Noise is deemed unreasonable if it's excessively loud given the time, place, and nature, or plainly audible between residences during quiet hours. Violations, including those for parties and construction, carry escalating fines starting at $200.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified | Not specified |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: The ordinance defines unreasonable noise based on factors like time, place, and nature, and if it's plainly audible between apartments or houses during quiet hours, rather than specific decibel limits.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Machinery, power equipment, and construction noise are prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM, with exemptions for approved emergency repair, utility work, snow removal equipment, and authorized municipal or educational institution events.
- Amplified Sound:
Operating sound amplification equipment from a motor vehicle that is audible at 25 feet is unlawful. Radios, TVs, musical instruments, and similar devices cannot be played in an unreasonably loud manner, especially if plainly audible through walls between units, from another property, or from the street between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
- Animals:
It is unlawful to permit an animal, such as a dog or cat, to bark, whine, howl, cry, or make other noises in an excessive and continuous fashion that disturbs the peace and quiet of any other person.
- Vehicles:
Prohibits the operation of sound amplification equipment from a motor vehicle audible at 25 feet. Also, bans creating squealing tires, loud and unnecessary grating, grinding, exploding-type, rattling, or other noises from automobiles or motorcycles, and sounding horns except as a danger warning. Discharging exhaust without an effective muffler is also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Burlington, VT Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Burlington, VT?
10PM-7AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Burlington, VT?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified during the day and Not specified 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 Burlington, VT?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Burlington, VT police non-emergency line at (802) 658-2704. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (802) 863-0442.