Fairfax County Decibel Limits Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsKey Facts
- Residential (Day)
- 60 dBA continuous / 100 dB impulse
- Residential (Night)
- 55 dBA continuous / 80 dB impulse
- Commercial (All Times)
- 65 dBA continuous / 100 dB impulse
- Industrial (Day)
- 72 dBA continuous / 120 dB impulse
- Industrial (Night)
- 65 dBA continuous / 100 dB impulse
- Measurement Standard
- A-weighted, slow response setting
The Short Version
Fairfax County sets maximum decibel levels that vary by zoning district and time of day. Residential areas are limited to 60 dBA during the day and 55 dBA at night. Commercial districts allow 65 dBA at all times. Industrial districts permit up to 72 dBA during the day and 65 dBA at night. Impulse sounds have separate, higher limits ranging from 80 dB to 120 dB depending on zone and time.
Full Breakdown
Chapter 108.1 of the Fairfax County Code establishes maximum decibel levels organized by zoning district and time of day. The measurements use the A-weighted sound pressure level (dBA) on the slow response setting of a sound level meter. All readings are taken at the property boundary of the receiving property.
For residential areas in residential districts, continuous sound is limited to 60 dBA from 7 AM to 10 PM and 55 dBA from 10 PM to 7 AM. Non-residential uses within residential districts are held to 60 dBA at all times. Mixed-use areas allow 65 dBA during the day and 60 dBA at night. Commercial districts are set at 65 dBA around the clock. Industrial districts are the most permissive at 72 dBA during the day and 65 dBA at night.
Impulse sounds — short, sharp bursts like hammering or slamming — have their own limits. In residential areas, impulse sounds are capped at 100 dB during the day and 80 dB at night. Commercial districts allow 100 dB at all times. Industrial zones permit up to 120 dB during the day and 100 dB at night. These impulse limits are measured without the A-weighting filter.
The Department of Code Compliance enforces decibel-regulated noise by scheduling inspections, typically within a few days of receiving a complaint. DCC does not respond in real time but uses calibrated sound level meters during inspections. Any person responsible for a noise source may apply for a waiver from the Zoning Administrator.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Exceeding the applicable decibel limit is a violation of Chapter 108.1. Civil penalties are up to $250 for a first offense and $500 for subsequent offenses. Criminal violations are Class 2 misdemeanors punishable by up to $1,000 in fines and/or six months in jail. The Department of Code Compliance first issues a Notice of Violation. If voluntary compliance is not achieved, the county may seek civil penalties or injunctive relief through the courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum noise level allowed in a Fairfax County residential neighborhood?
How does Fairfax County measure noise for enforcement?
Can I get a waiver from the noise decibel limits in Fairfax County?
Sources & Official References
Related Ordinances in Fairfax County
Quiet Hours
Some RestrictionsNoise Ordinances · Fairfax County, VA
Fairfax County enforces nighttime noise limits from 10 PM to 7 AM under Chapter 108.1 of the County Code. Residential areas are limited to 55 dBA at night an...
Construction Hours
Some RestrictionsNoise Ordinances · Fairfax County, VA
Fairfax County permits construction activity from 7 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and from 9 AM to 9 PM on weekends and federal holidays. Construction noise in resi...
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