New Orleans, LA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for New Orleans, LA.
Ordinance Summary
New Orleans, LA noise ordinances, detailed in Chapter 66, Article IV, prohibit noise levels exceeding 60 dBA that are plainly audible within a neighbor's dwelling. Specific quiet hours apply, generally restricting amplified sound in residential areas from 9 PM to 10 AM on weekdays and 10:30 PM to 10 AM on weekends. Violations are misdemeanors, subject to fines and/or imprisonment.
Quiet Hours
Sunday-Thursday: 9 PM - 10 AM (amplified sound audible in dwellings); Friday-Saturday: 10:30 PM - 10 AM (amplified sound audible in dwellings); Power equipment in residential zones: Weekdays 10 PM - 7 AM, Weekends 10 PM - 8 AM.
Police Non-Emergency
(504) 821-2222Decibel Limits
"Limits are measured at or beyond the property boundary of the receiving land use category. L10 is the A-weighted sound pressure level exceeded 10% of the time, and Lmax is the maximum allowed A-weighted sound level. Public right-of-way, parks, and playgrounds have a limit of 80 dBA at 50 feet."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the New Orleans, LA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction and demolition are prohibited before 7:00 AM or after 6:00 PM in RS, RD, or RM residential districts, or within 300 feet of such districts. Certain construction activities are exempt from general decibel limits between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM with a building permit, except in residential zones. Operation of loud equipment like pile drivers is generally prohibited between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, with highway construction having a 250-foot residential buffer during these hours.
Operating sound devices (radios, TVs, musical instruments, loudspeakers) in a dwelling so as to be plainly audible one foot from an exterior wall of a neighboring dwelling or beyond property lines is unlawful between 9 PM (Sun-Thu) / 10:30 PM (Fri-Sat) and 10 AM (subsequent morning). Similar rules apply within multiple-unit structures. Loudspeakers for commercial advertising in public spaces are prohibited. Outdoor live entertainment is limited to 11 AM - 8 PM and requires a 30-foot buffer from residential districts with speakers directed away from residences.
Owners or keepers are prohibited from allowing frequent or continuing noise from any animal or fowl that disturbs a reasonable person of normal sensitivity.
Motor vehicles must have functional mufflers and sound dissipating devices, with modifications causing excessive noise being prohibited. Refuse collection vehicles cannot operate between 8:00 PM and 5:00 AM in residential or noise-sensitive zones. Off-road motorized vehicles must comply with decibel limits when operated off public rights-of-way, and vehicle repair cannot exceed noise limits at property lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
Sunday-Thursday: 9 PM - 10 AM (amplified sound audible in dwellings); Friday-Saturday: 10:30 PM - 10 AM (amplified sound audible in dwellings); Power equipment in residential zones: Weekdays 10 PM - 7 AM, Weekends 10 PM - 8 AM..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: (504) 821-2222.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for New Orleans, LA
SolvedBest Gear for New Orleans, LA Residents
Ultrasonic Bark Control
Humane deterrent that emits a high-frequency sound when it detects barking.
Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
The "gold standard" for sleeping. Reduces noise by 24dB without the pain of foam plugs.
1/2" Thick Rug Pad
Essential for the "80% Rule." Adds density to rugs to absorb footfall impact noise for downstairs neighbors.
Hemp Calming Chews
Natural relief for dog anxiety. Perfect for separation anxiety barking or fear of fireworks.
ThunderShirt for Dogs
The best solution for anxiety-induced barking (fireworks, thunder, separation).
Marpac Dohm Classic
The original fan-based machine. Unlike digital loops, this creates real rushing air sound.
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