What is the residential decibel limit in Raleigh, NC?

Daytime limit: Not specified. Nighttime limit: Not specified. The City of Raleigh noise ordinance (Ordinance (2024)-586) adopts a 'reasonable person' standard for general noise, prohibiting plainly audible 'unreasonable loud or raucous noise,' especially during quiet hours. For commercial establishments playing amplified sound, effective January 1, 2026, specific decibel limits apply and differentiate between dB(A) for normal conversation and dB(C) for deeper sounds: - Sunday – Thursday (10 a.m. – 10 p.m.): Citywide Standard: 70 dB(A) / 75 dB(C); With DECIBEL Permit: Up to 80 dB(A) / 88 dB(C); Glenwood South Standard: 80 dB(A) / 88 dB(C). - Sunday – Thursday (10 p.m. – 2 a.m.): Citywide Standard: 55 dB(A) / 60 dB(C); With DECIBEL Permit: 55 dB(A) / 60 dB(C); Glenwood South Standard: 75 dB(A) / 80 dB(C). - Friday – Saturday (10 a.m. – 11 p.m.): Citywide Standard: 70 dB(A) / 75 dB(C); With DECIBEL Permit: Up to 80 dB(A) / 88 dB(C); Glenwood South Standard: 82 dB(A) / 92 dB(C). - Friday – Saturday (11 p.m. – 12 a.m.): Citywide Standard: 55 dB(A) / 60 dB(C); With DECIBEL Permit: 55 dB(A) / 60 dB(C); Glenwood South Standard: 82 dB(A) / 92 dB(C). - Friday – Saturday (12 a.m. – 2 a.m.): Citywide Standard: 55 dB(A) / 60 dB(C); With DECIBEL Permit: 55 dB(A) / 60 dB(C); Glenwood South Standard: 75 dB(A) / 80 dB(C). - Citywide (2 a.m. – 10 a.m.): Amplified sound should not be plainly audible from 25 feet. DECIBEL permits may be issued at lower levels depending on site conditions.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Raleigh, NC?

For non-emergencies, contact the police at 919-829-1911. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at 919-996-2444.

Raleigh, NC Noise Ordinance

Quiet Hours: 11 PM - 7 AM

Residential Decibel Limit: Not specified (Day) / Not specified (Night)

Summary: Raleigh, NC's noise ordinance prohibits unreasonably loud or raucous noise, with new amplified sound rules for commercial establishments taking effect January 1, 2026. These updated regulations set specific decibel limits that vary by location (Glenwood South, citywide) and time, moving beyond the previous 'reasonable person' standard. General quiet hours for noise citywide are from 11 PM to 7 AM.

Local Noise Laws

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