Greensboro, NC
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Greensboro, NC.
Ordinance Summary
Greensboro, NC noise ordinances, outlined in Sec. 18-48 and 18-49, prohibit unreasonably loud or disturbing noises that annoy, disturb, injure, or endanger citizens' comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety. The city aims to secure public health and welfare by regulating noise disturbances. Recent revisions have eliminated specific decibel limits in favor of a "reasonable person" standard.
Quiet Hours
Quiet hours for construction in residential districts are 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., and in non-residential districts are 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Outdoor amplified sound is prohibited from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with exceptions for major holidays.
Police Non-Emergency
336-373-2222Decibel Limits
"Greensboro has moved away from specific decibel limits towards a 'reasonable person' standard for noise enforcement. A noise disturbance is presumed to exist if the sound exceeds maximum lawful decibel limits at a property boundary within residential zoning districts."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Greensboro, NC code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Erection, demolition, alteration, or repair of any building (including excavation and grading) in a residential district is prohibited between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. In any district other than residential, these activities are prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
It is unlawful for any person to cause sound to emanate from a loudspeaker or amplifier if audible at a distance exceeding 150 feet. Any sound amplification outside any building or structure is outlawed from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with exceptions for major holidays.
Guilford County Animal Control enforces animal laws and ordinances, and picks up stray and injured animals.
While no specific vehicle hours are listed, the general ordinance prohibits unreasonably loud or disturbing noise. If music or noise from a vehicle can be heard 30 feet away, it is considered unreasonably loud and disturbing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
Quiet hours for construction in residential districts are 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., and in non-residential districts are 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Outdoor amplified sound is prohibited from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with exceptions for major holidays..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 336-373-2222.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
Noise Solutions for Greensboro, NC
SolvedBest Gear for Greensboro, 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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