Morgantown, WV
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Morgantown, WV.
Ordinance Summary
Morgantown, WV, through City Code Article 527, Noise Control, prohibits loud, unnecessary, or unusual noises that annoy, disturb, injure, or endanger the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of others. Quiet hours generally apply from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., aiming to prevent noise disturbances across property boundaries or within noise-sensitive zones.
Quiet Hours
General quiet hours for creating a noise disturbance are 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.. Yelling and shouting on public rights-of-way are restricted between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m.. Amplified sound waivers expire at 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and midnight on Friday and Saturday. Lawn maintenance equipment is exempt between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m..
Police Non-Emergency
304-284-7522, ext. 0Decibel Limits
"The Morgantown City Code (Article 527) defines dBA but does not specify maximum decibel limits for residential or commercial zones within the city. Morgan County's ordinance, which specifies a 65 dB limit, explicitly excludes municipalities."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Morgantown, WV code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
General construction is subject to the overall noise disturbance rules, prohibiting loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.. Building permits are generally required for construction projects.
Amplified sound creating a noise disturbance across a property boundary or within a noise sensitive zone is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.. A waiver of the noise code is required for events with amplified sound, with waivers expiring at 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and midnight on Friday and Saturday.
No person shall allow domestic animals to create unreasonably loud and disturbing noises. In Morgan County, it is unlawful for domestic animals to produce audible sound above the allowed level between 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
It is unlawful to create a noise disturbance at 50 feet from a device operated in or on a motor vehicle on a public right-of-way or public space, or in a boat on public waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
General quiet hours for creating a noise disturbance are 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.. Yelling and shouting on public rights-of-way are restricted between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m.. Amplified sound waivers expire at 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and midnight on Friday and Saturday. Lawn maintenance equipment is exempt between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m...
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 304-284-7522, ext. 0.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Morgantown, WV
SolvedBest Gear for Morgantown, WV 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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