Virginia Beach, VA Noise from Specific Sources: Bar & Nightclub Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Daytime limit
- 80 dB(A), 7 a.m.–11 p.m.
- Nighttime limit
- 75 dB(A), 11 p.m.–7 a.m.
- Measured from
- public street, sidewalk, or neighboring property
- First offense
- Class 3 misdemeanor
- Enforced by
- Virginia Beach Police Department
Summary
Virginia Beach caps sound from restaurants, bars and nightclubs at 80 dBA during the day and 75 dBA overnight, measured from the street or sidewalk outside.
No person shall permit, operate or cause any source of sound to create a sound level emanating from a restaurant during the hours between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. in excess of eighty (80) dB(A), or between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in excess of seventy-five (75) dB(A) when measured from any public area including, but not limited to, any public streets or sidewalks, or other private property.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 170 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 23-72 sets a decibel limit for restaurants, and the Article II noise definitions in § 23-64 expressly state that 'restaurant' includes bars, lounges, taverns, coffee shops and cafes. Sound emanating from these establishments can't exceed 80 dB(A) between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., or 75 dB(A) between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., when measured from any public area such as a street or sidewalk, or from other private property. The police department enforces the noise ordinance and may issue a summons under § 23-65; a private citizen can also pursue a magistrate's summons directly.
Violations & Fines
First offense is a Class 3 misdemeanor; a repeat violation within one year is a Class 2 misdemeanor. The city can also seek a circuit court injunction against ongoing violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Virginia Beach's noise limit apply to bars and nightclubs, not just restaurants?
How is bar noise measured for enforcement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
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