A noise ordinance is a local law designed to limit excessive and unreasonable sound to protect public health and the quiet enjoyment of property. These regulations establish standards for acceptable noise levels within a community. The purpose is to balance the interests of various activities with the right of residents to a peaceful environment. By setting clear expectations for sound, these ordinances help prevent disputes.
Local Control of Noise Regulations in Tennessee
In Tennessee, there is no single, statewide law that governs noise. Instead, the authority to create and enforce noise regulations is delegated to local governments. This means that the specific rules you must follow are found in the municipal or county codes where you reside.
This localized control means that what is permissible in one county might be a violation in a neighboring city. As a result, residents must consult their local government’s specific ordinances to understand the applicable restrictions. The legal basis for this local authority is the Tennessee Code, which grants municipalities and counties the power to regulate activities considered a public nuisance, including excessive noise.
Commonly Regulated Noises and Hours
Local noise ordinances in Tennessee target specific types of sounds and establish stricter rules for certain times of the day. Commonly regulated noises include:
- Sound from amplified devices like radios and speakers
- Persistent animal sounds such as dog barking
- Noise from construction activities
- Loud vehicles, including those with modified exhaust systems or the unnecessary use of horns
Restrictions are heightened during nighttime hours to protect sleep and repose. Many communities define these quiet hours as running from 10:00 p.m. or 11:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. During these times, the allowable volume for amplified music or other sounds is significantly reduced. For example, a rule may state that sound cannot be “plainly audible” beyond the property line of the source during these hours.
Regulations can also differ based on the zoning of an area. Residential zones have the strictest limits, while commercial and industrial districts may permit higher noise levels, particularly during daytime business hours. Some ordinances use a decibel-based standard, setting specific maximum sound levels that vary by time and location. For instance, a residential area might have a daytime limit of 65 decibels and a nighttime limit of 55 decibels.
Addressing a Noise Disturbance
If you are experiencing a noise issue, the first potential step is to consider direct communication with the person responsible for the noise, provided you feel safe doing so. A polite conversation can sometimes resolve the matter without official intervention and can help maintain neighborly relations.
Should direct communication be unsafe, inappropriate, or ineffective, the next step is to contact the proper local authorities. For most noise issues, this means calling the non-emergency number for your local police or sheriff’s department. Some municipalities have a dedicated code enforcement department that handles noise complaints, and their contact information can be found on the local government’s website.
When you file a formal complaint, be prepared to provide specific information. You will need to give the exact location of the noise, a clear description of the sound, and details about its timing and duration. Providing a detailed account helps law enforcement or code enforcement officers to properly investigate the situation.
Potential Consequences for Violators
The penalties for violating a local noise ordinance in Tennessee vary depending on the municipality and the severity of the offense. Enforcement often begins with a formal warning from a law enforcement or code enforcement officer, giving the individual an opportunity to correct the issue without a penalty.
If a warning is ignored or for more serious violations, the next step is a citation, which comes with a monetary fine. While there is no statewide standard, fines for a first offense can be up to $50 for specific violations like excessive vehicle noise under state law or up to $250 under some local ordinances.1FindLaw. Tennessee Code Title 55. Motor and Other Vehicles § 55-9-202 These fines often increase for subsequent violations, with repeat offenses potentially costing $500 or more.
In cases of persistent and egregious noise that continues to disrupt the public peace, further legal action may be taken. The specific consequences are dictated entirely by the local ordinance in the jurisdiction where the violation occurred.