Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Daytime limit
55 dB(A), 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Nighttime limit
50 dB(A), 9 p.m.-9 a.m.
Measured at
Nearest residential property line
Permit issuer
Chief building official

Summary

Chattanooga caps sound amplification equipment at 55 dB(A) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 50 dB(A) overnight, measured at the nearest residential property line, hospital, school, or nursing home.

(1)Operate or allow the operation of any sound amplification equipment so as to create sounds registering fifty-five (55) dB(A) between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. or fifty (50) dB(A) between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m., as measured anywhere within the boundary line of the nearest residentially occupied property, hospital, school in session or nursing home, except in accordance with a permit obtained from the chief building official.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 40 Update 1).

Full Breakdown

City Code § 25-69(a)(1) sets the baseline decibel ceiling for sound amplification equipment citywide, outside the Downtown Amplified Music District: no more than 55 dB(A) between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., dropping to 50 dB(A) between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m., measured anywhere within the boundary line of the nearest residentially occupied property, hospital, school in session, or nursing home. A parallel standard applies to multifamily buildings under § 25-69(a)(2). Operators can apply to the chief building official under § 25-71 for a permit to exceed the limit for a capped number of hours per year.

Violations & Fines

Unpermitted excess amplification draws a $50 citation and up to a $500 civil penalty per violation under § 25-74; repeat infractions can trigger permit suspension or a forced closure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chattanooga's decibel limit for amplified sound?
Sound amplification equipment cannot exceed 55 dB(A) between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., or 50 dB(A) overnight, measured at the nearest residential property line under City Code § 25-69(a)(1).
Does the citywide decibel limit apply downtown?
No: entities holding a Downtown Amplified Music District Permit follow a separate day/night decibel table under § 25-69(b).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Chattanooga

Quiet HoursSome RestrictionsConstruction HoursSome RestrictionsBarking DogsSome RestrictionsVehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsLeaf Blower RulesSome RestrictionsAmplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsFew RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Exotic PetsHeavy Restrictions

All Chattanooga rules

Compare Chattanooga to another location·View the Tennessee noise ordinances overview

Get notified when Decibel Limits in Chattanooga, TN changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.