Hampton, VA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Hampton, VA.
Ordinance Summary
Hampton, VA's noise ordinance, Chapter 22, prohibits various loud, disturbing, and unlawful noises. Generally, activities creating plainly audible noise are restricted between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in residential areas, including social gatherings, sound-producing devices, and lawn care. Downtown amplified music has a 60 dBA limit. Penalties range from $500 to $2,500 for repeat offenses.
Quiet Hours
10PM-7AM
Police Non-Emergency
757-727-6111Decibel Limits
"Amplified music/outdoor bands in downtown areas (DT-1, DT-2, DT-3) must not exceed 60 dBA upon another's real property. Other residential limits are based on sound being 'plainly audible' at specified distances rather than specific decibel levels."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Hampton, VA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Lawn care, leaf removal, gardening, tree maintenance, or other landscaping/timbering activities are prohibited if plainly audible in residential areas between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.. The creation of any sound or noise from street cleaning and construction between 12:00 midnight and 6:00 a.m. that is plainly audible in residential areas is prohibited, except in certain commercial districts.
The use, operation, or playing of sound-producing/reproducing devices (radios, musical instruments, loudspeakers, etc.) is prohibited if plainly audible between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (i) inside another person's dwelling or (ii) 50 or more feet in residential areas.. Amplified music or outdoor bands in downtown areas (DT-1, DT-2, or DT-3) must not exceed 60 dBA upon the real property of another.. Amplified sound from vehicles is prohibited if plainly audible from outside the vehicle at 50 feet or more.
Noisy animals are prohibited. Violations can be enforced by a police officer or animal control officer. (Referenced in city code § 5-9 for noisy animals or birds).
It is unlawful for any person operating a vehicle with a gutted muffler, muffler cutout, straight exhaust, or an exhaust system not in good working order (violating Virginia Code §§ 46.2-1047 or 46.2-1049) to create a sound audible and discernible at a distance of 50 feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10PM-7AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 757-727-6111.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Hampton, VA
SolvedBest Gear for Hampton, 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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