Noise Rules: Fargo vs West Fargo
How do noise rules rules compare between Fargo, ND and West Fargo, ND?
Fargo and West Fargo have similar restriction levels.
Fargo, ND
Cass County
Fargo short-term rental hosts must ensure guests follow citywide quiet-hours standards from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., with operators responsible for guest behavior and subject to permit review after repeat noise complaints.
View full Fargo rules →West Fargo, ND
Cass County
West Fargo Ordinance 1254, codified at Chapter 10-16 of the Revised Ordinances of 1990, requires every short-term rental to comply with the city's general noise rules and prohibits any gathering meeting the ordinance definition of a 'party.' Operators must post the City's Good Neighbor Guidelines covering noise control, waste, and parking etiquette inside the unit.
View full West Fargo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fargo | West Fargo |
|---|---|---|
| Quiet hours | 10 p.m.–7 a.m. | - |
| Code chapter | Fargo Code Ch. 10 | - |
| Enforcement | Fargo PD + auditor | - |
| License risk | Suspension on repeat complaints | - |
| Code Chapter | - | Ch. 10-16 |
| Enabling Ordinance | - | Ord. 1254 |
| Party Prohibition | - | Sec. 10-1604(2) |
| Local Responder | - | Within 2 hours, 24/7 |
| Posting Required | - | Good Neighbor Guidelines |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fargo FAQ
Is the host or guest fined?
Both can be cited. Guests face nuisance citations directly, while hosts risk business-license action when complaints recur at the property.
Are decibel meters used?
Fargo officers typically rely on plainly audible standards rather than meters when responding to STR noise calls during quiet hours.
West Fargo FAQ
What are the noise rules at a West Fargo Airbnb?
Under Chapter 10-16 (Ordinance 1254), every STR must follow the City's general noise rule, which is in effect 24/7 and bans any loud or unnecessary noise that annoys or disturbs others. Section 10-1604 also forbids using the unit for any gathering meeting the chapter's definition of a 'party,' which includes amplified sound, music, or activity likely to disturb the peace. Confirm specific noise enforcement contacts with West Fargo Police at 701-515-5500.
Who responds if neighbors complain about an STR at night?
Section 10-1603(2)(g) of Chapter 10-16 requires the licensee to identify at least one person able to respond within two hours at all times the unit is rented. That contact must have authority to make decisions and access the dwelling. The license posted in the main entry must include this responder's contact information.
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