Lexington, KY Filming & Production: Production Noise (2026)

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government enforces noise regulations under Chapter 14 of the Code of Ordinances, which prohibits loud disturbances across the city between 11 PM and 7 AM. Film and entertainment productions are not exempt from these limits. The October 2024 Film and Entertainment Guidelines require productions using amplified sound, pyrotechnics, special effects, or other noise-generating equipment to apply for a noise waiver if the activity would occur outside the standard permitted noise window or would exceed normal levels during daytime hours. Waiver requests must be submitted at least 72 hours before the planned activity. The Mayor's Office coordinates the review, which may involve input from the Lexington Police Department and neighboring residents or businesses. Productions filming in residential neighborhoods should expect closer scrutiny and may be conditioned to shorter operating windows. Equipment loading and unloading (grip trucks, generators, catering vehicles) should be scheduled to minimize early morning and late night disturbances. Generators used on set must be positioned and baffled to reduce sound impact on adjacent properties. Failure to comply with the noise ordinance or the conditions of an approved waiver can result in citation, with approximately 6,000 noise complaints investigated by Lexington Police annually. Repeated violations may result in revocation of the filming permit. For noise waiver requests, contact the Mayor's Office or FilmLEX at film@visitlex.com.