Fairfax County, VA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Events (2026)

Fairfax County Chapter 108 treats amplified sound as a higher-priority enforcement category than general noise. On private residential property, amplified music (including wedding bands, backyard DJs, and outdoor speakers) may not be plainly audible at 50 feet from the property line at any time. During quiet hours (10 PM-7 AM weekdays, 10 PM-9 AM weekends/holidays), the standard becomes plainly audible inside a neighboring dwelling with windows closed. Commercial establishments with outdoor amplified entertainment require a Special Exception from the Board of Supervisors, and approved venues typically carry conditions limiting speaker direction, decibel caps, and end times (commonly 10 PM or 11 PM). Parties for private events such as weddings are not automatically exempt; homeowners sometimes pursue temporary noise permits for outdoor weddings, though Fairfax County does not have a formal temporary amplified-sound permit for residential events. First-offense violations are Class 3 misdemeanors with fines up to $500; equipment can be seized in extreme cases. Mosque calls to prayer, church bells, and ice cream truck chimes have limited exemptions under Chapter 108 §5.