Quiet hours in Columbus, OH — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Columbus City Code §2329.11 sets residential noise limits at 65 dBA/75 dBc (10 AM–10 PM) and prohibits clearly audible sound from property line 10 PM–10 AM. Average hourly maximum of 60 dB applies 10 PM–7 AM.
Columbus City Code §2329.11 establishes zone-based noise limits. Residential areas: 65 dBA/75 dBc day (10 AM–10 PM); no clearly audible sound from property line 10 PM–10 AM. Multi-unit dwellings: 45 dBA/55 dBc day, 35 dBA/45 dBc night. Commercial districts: 70 dBA/80 dBc (10 AM–11 PM), 65 dBA (11 PM–10 AM). Historic/Central Business District: 70 dBA/80 dBc (10 AM–1 AM), 65 dBA/75 dBc (1 AM–10 AM). Nonresidential sound audible at residential property line 100 feet away between 10 PM–7 AM is prohibited. Violations are misdemeanors; repeat offenders barred from permits for 2 years.
Misdemeanor offense. Repeat violation within 2 years: ineligible to apply for permits or variances. Recent updates added civil penalties for businesses.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Franklin County.
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