Reno, NV Noise from Specific Sources: Bar & Nightclub Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Nighttime limit
- 49 dB, 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
- Daytime limit
- 65 dB
- Measured at
- residential property line
- Applies to
- nonresidential uses within 300 ft of residential zones
- Exemptions
- temporary construction, airport operations
Summary
Reno caps nonresidential noise, including bars and nightclubs near homes, at 49 decibels overnight (10 p.m.–7 a.m.) and 65 decibels daytime, measured at the adjoining residential property line under the city's Residential Adjacency standards.
(a)Noise at Residential Property Lines ... (2)Permissible Noise Level a.Nighttime Noise Level Noise levels shall not exceed 49 db leq or 49 db for a single event occurring on a re-occurring basis at a residentially zoned property line between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. b.Daytime Noise Level Noise levels shall not exceed 65 db leq or 65 db for a single event on a reoccurring basis at a residentially zoned property line.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Administrative Code: Supplement 64 | Land Development Code: Supplement 5 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under Reno Municipal Code § 18.04.1407, any nonresidential development within 300 feet of a residential zoning district or mobile home park, including bars and nightclubs, must keep sound at the residential property line under 49 dB (Leq or single-event) between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., and under 65 dB during the day. Measurements use a sound level meter and octave band analyzer meeting American Standards Association specifications. Temporary construction noise from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. and airport operations are exempt. If ambient noise already exceeds these caps, the source can't push levels any higher.
Violations & Fines
Enforced under RMC Chapter 1.05, Code Enforcement: the Administrator can issue notices of violation, administrative citations, and stop-work orders, and may deny, withhold, or revoke permits for a noncompliant use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Reno's noise limit apply to bars and nightclubs?
How does Reno measure bar or nightclub noise?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Reno
Compare Reno to another location·View the Nevada noise from specific sources overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.