Albuquerque, NM
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Albuquerque, NM.
Ordinance Summary
Albuquerque, NM's Noise Control Ordinance sets residential daytime limits at 55 dBA (7 AM-10 PM) and nighttime at 50 dBA (10 PM-7 AM). Sound must not exceed 10 dBA above ambient levels. Commercial zone limits (source to receptor) are 65 dBA day and 60 dBA night. Violations may result in fines starting around $250.
Quiet Hours
10 PM to 7 AM
Police Non-Emergency
311 (working hours) or (505) 242-COPS (2677) (after hours/weekends)Decibel Limits
"Sound level limits are set by the overall zoning of the receptor property, not the actual use. Noise levels must also not exceed the ambient noise level by more than 10 dBA. Commercial limits provided are for a commercial source to a commercial receptor."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Albuquerque, NM code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction activities are generally allowed from 6 AM to 10 PM. Construction is restricted on Sundays, holidays, and between 10 PM to 4 AM without a temporary construction permit. Work within 500 feet of noise-sensitive property requires sound control devices and noise determination tests. Emergency work is exempt.
Amplified sound cannot exceed 5 dB above the ambient noise level at the property line of a receiving noise-sensitive property, or be plainly audible within a dwelling unit at night. At city-owned facilities, amplified sound over 90 dB is prohibited. Portable equipment cannot be plainly audible 25 feet away during the day, or by anyone other than the operator at night. Temporary permits for amplified sound are available for activities between 7 AM and 12 AM.
No person shall allow an animal in their possession or control to persistently or continuously bark, howl, or make noise common to its species, disturbing the peace.
Motor vehicles must not exceed specified noise limits when measured 50 feet from the center of the vehicle path. Car alarms that repeatedly go off should be reported to the Albuquerque Police Department's non-emergency number.
Outdoor use of lawnmowers or other power equipment is allowed from 7 AM to 10 PM Monday to Saturday, and from 9 AM to 10 PM on Sundays and holidays.
Refuse collection is not covered by the noise ordinance between the hours of 7 AM and 10 PM. Complaints about noise outside these hours should be directed to 311.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10 PM to 7 AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 311 (working hours) or (505) 242-COPS (2677) (after hours/weekends).
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Albuquerque, NM
SolvedBest Gear for Albuquerque, NM Residents
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.





