Knoxville, TN
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Knoxville, TN.
Ordinance Summary
Knoxville, TN noise ordinances, detailed in Chapter 18 of the City Code, establish specific quiet hours and decibel limits based on land use. Residential continuous noise is limited to 60 dB(C) from midnight to 7 AM and 65 dB(C) otherwise. Vehicle noise, amplified sound, and domestic power equipment also have restrictions. Enforcement is handled by KPD and Code Enforcement.
Quiet Hours
Quiet hours for residential areas, particularly concerning continuous noise, are from 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM. However, general noise should be kept at a lower level between midnight and 7 AM, and certain activities like operating domestic power equipment are restricted between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Police Non-Emergency
865-215-4010Decibel Limits
"Limits are C-weighted sound pressure levels. Industrial use has a limit of 80 dB(C) for continuous or impulsive sound at all times. Sound from any source within a public premise is limited to 65 dB(C) (continuous) or 80 dB(C) (impulsive) when measured from approximately 20 feet from the source."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Knoxville, TN code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Operation of domestic power equipment (including power lawn mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers, snowblowers, tillers, saws, sanders, drills, or similar devices) is restricted between 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Food trucks are not allowed to use amplification devices. Motor vehicle audio equipment (radio, tape player, etc.) is restricted if audible to a person of normal hearing sensitivity more than 50 feet from the vehicle on public streets or more than 50 feet outside the real property boundary on private property. Outdoor entertainment may be allowed with adherence to appropriate noise levels and may require a permit.
Animal-related concerns, including animal welfare and nuisance animals, can be reported to Animal Services. Knox County Animal Services typically handles domestic animal issues and may assist with wildlife concerns.
Every motor vehicle must be equipped with a muffler in good working order to prevent excessive or unusual noise; muffler cutouts, bypasses, or similar devices are prohibited. Excessive road noise, engine revving, aggressive driving, and illegally modified mufflers are subjects of enforcement efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
Quiet hours for residential areas, particularly concerning continuous noise, are from 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM. However, general noise should be kept at a lower level between midnight and 7 AM, and certain activities like operating domestic power equipment are restricted between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 865-215-4010.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
- nonoise.org
- azurewebsites.us
- knoxvilletn.gov
- knoxvilletn.gov
- knoxvilletn.gov
- knoxvilletnpolice.gov
- knoxvilletnpolice.gov
- knoxsheriff.org
- young-williams.org
- knoxvilletn.gov
- knoxvilletn.gov
- knoxvilletn.gov
- knoxvilletn.gov
- knoxvilletn.gov
- aaanimalcontrol.com
- aaanimalcontrol.com
- knoxvilletn.gov
- youtube.com
- tennesseebonding.com
Noise Solutions for Knoxville, TN
SolvedBest Gear for Knoxville, TN 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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