Memphis uses a combined decibel and plainly-audible standard. Residential zones cap noise at roughly 65 dBA daytime and 55 dBA at night, measured at the property line. Commercial zones allow 70 dBA and industrial 75 dBA, stepping down to residential limits at any shared boundary.
Memphis Code Chapter 9 sets tiered decibel limits by zoning district. In residential districts (R-series), the limit is approximately 65 dBA from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 55 dBA overnight. In commercial districts, limits run 5 dB higher. Industrial zones allow 75 dBA, but when bordering a residential district the lower residential number controls at the shared boundary. Measurements are taken with a Type 2 sound level meter on slow response, typically at the receiving property line. Impulse sounds and pure tones carry a 5 dB penalty. Construction, emergency repairs, and public works are exempt during permitted hours. Memphis Police and Code Enforcement officers with meters conduct measurements for formal citations; many calls are resolved on the plainly-audible standard without a meter reading. Fines start around $50 per violation and can rise with repeat offenses. Humid Memphis summers cause long outdoor-use seasons that generate most complaint volume.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Memphis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Memphis's decibel limits rules stack up against other locations.
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