VERIFIED 2026

Wilmington, NC
Noise Code

The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Wilmington, NC.

Ordinance Summary

Wilmington, NC noise ordinances, outlined in Article II, Sections 6-26 to 6-34 of the City Code, establish specific decibel limits and quiet hours for residential, commercial, and downtown areas. Permits are required for activities expected to exceed these limits. Violations can result in fines up to $500 and/or 30 days imprisonment.

Quiet Hours

Generally, 11 PM to 7 AM on weekdays. Residential, commercial/industrial, and downtown areas extend daytime limits until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Downtown has a 70 dB(A) limit between midnight and 2 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

Police Non-Emergency

910-452-6120

Decibel Limits

Day
0dB
Night
0dB

"Downtown area limits are 75 dB(A) during the day (7 AM - 11 PM, or until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays) and 65 dB(A) at night (11 PM - 7 AM, or midnight to 7 AM on Fridays and Saturdays), with a 70 dB(A) limit between midnight and 2 AM on Saturday and Sunday."

Measure Noise Levels Instantly

Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Wilmington, NC code.

Specific Noise Restrictions

1
Construction

Construction activity performed by a government agency is exempt if equipment is operated to manufacturer's specifications with noise-reducing equipment. General construction is expected to adhere to the standard noise ordinance hours and decibel limits, typically restricted during quiet hours.

2
Amplified Sound

Permits are required for amplified sound expected to exceed sound level or time limits, applied through the Wilmington Police Department at least five business days prior. A noise disturbance is presumed if sound is 'plainly audible' within an occupied structure not the source, or within 66 feet of a commercial property line.

3
Animals

Animal complaints are directed to the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office Animal Services Unit. Keeping chickens on residential properties within city limits requires a poultry permit and a property size of at least 15,000 square feet.

4
Vehicles

Junked vehicles are prohibited on residential zoned property unless stored in a rear yard with an approved cover. Abandoned vehicles left over seven days on a street or over two hours on private property without consent are prohibited. Complaints about boats/RVs parked in the street go to the Wilmington Police Department.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quiet Hours?

Generally, 11 PM to 7 AM on weekdays. Residential, commercial/industrial, and downtown areas extend daytime limits until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Downtown has a 70 dB(A) limit between midnight and 2 AM on Saturday and Sunday..

Construction?

Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.

Who to call?

Use Non-Emergency Police: 910-452-6120.

Fines?

Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.

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