Charlottesville, VA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Charlottesville, VA.
Ordinance Summary
Charlottesville, VA noise ordinances, codified in City Code Chapter 16, prohibit excessive sound disturbing public peace and welfare. Residential zones have limits of 55 dB(A) from 10 PM to 6 AM and 65 dB(A) from 6 AM to 10 PM. Amplified sound from vehicles and certain commercial establishments also have specific restrictions and decibel limits during nighttime hours.
Quiet Hours
10PM-6AM (residential)
Police Non-Emergency
434-970-3280Decibel Limits
"Decibel levels are measured at or outside the property boundary."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Charlottesville, VA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Exempt from regulation during daytime hours. Between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. in residential zones, construction noise must not exceed 55 dB(A).
Operating any amplified sound device in a motor vehicle that disturbs the peace between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., audible at 100 feet or more, is a violation. Restaurants and music halls have specific nighttime decibel limits.
Noise complaints, including those for barking dogs, are handled by the non-emergency police. Some ordinances may consider continuous barking for 30 minutes or more, with no pauses greater than 5 minutes, as a violation during quiet hours.
Amplified sound from motor vehicles that disturbs the peace is prohibited, particularly between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. if audible from 100 feet or more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10PM-6AM (residential).
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 434-970-3280.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Charlottesville, VA
SolvedBest Gear for Charlottesville, VA 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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