Cary, NC
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Cary, NC.
Ordinance Summary
Cary, NC's noise ordinance, detailed in Chapter 22 of the Town Code, establishes decibel limits to prevent unreasonably loud and disturbing noise affecting residential life. General amplified sound is limited to 60 dB(A) during the day (9 AM-9 PM) and 50 dB(A) at night (9 PM-9 AM) at adjacent residential property. Specific rules apply to construction and animal noise.
Quiet Hours
General amplified sound affecting residential property is limited to 50 dB(A) between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. and 60 dB(A) between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.. Lawn mowers and landscaping equipment are permitted between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Police Non-Emergency
(919) 469-4012Decibel Limits
"Sound measurements are averaged over 60 seconds. A violation occurs if the average exceeds the limit, or if any sound exceeds the limit by 3 dB(A) or more at any time during the measurement period. Limits are measured at the affected residential property."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Cary, NC code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction work and operation of construction machinery are permitted Monday through Friday between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., and on Saturdays and state-observed holidays between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Amplified sound impacting residential areas is regulated with specific decibel limits: 60 dB(A) from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and 50 dB(A) from 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.. Public entertainment venues have distinct limits: 65 dB(A) (9 AM-9 PM), 55 dB(A) (9 PM-2 AM), and 40 dB(A) (2 AM-9 AM) affecting residential structures. Permits are required for amplified sound exceeding these limits, with applications due at least 15 days in advance.
Excessive barking and other nuisance animal sounds are addressed under Sec. 6-71(f) of the Town Ordinance. Complaints require a detailed written and signed submission, which leads to a notice to the animal owner. If the issue is not resolved, an abatement order is issued, and continued violations can result in a civil citation.
Section 22-108 of the Town Code addresses motor vehicle noise. The general ordinance prohibits unreasonably loud, disturbing noise which frightens, annoys, disturbs, injures, or endangers comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
General amplified sound affecting residential property is limited to 50 dB(A) between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. and 60 dB(A) between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.. Lawn mowers and landscaping equipment are permitted between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: (919) 469-4012.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
Noise Solutions for Cary, NC
SolvedBest Gear for Cary, NC 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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