Stark County, OH Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours (2026)
Quiet hours in Stark County, OH, also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time, define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Key Facts
- County code
- No general county noise ordinance
- Canton night window
- 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.
- Daytime rule
- No unreasonable disturbing noise
- Township basis
- ORC Ch. 519 zoning
- First-offense penalty
- Minor misdemeanor
Summary
Stark County has no general countywide noise or quiet-hours code. In Canton, amplified sound that crosses a residential property line is barred 8:00 p.m.–8:00 a.m., and any unreasonably loud noise disturbing the peace is prohibited anytime. Townships and other cities set their own rules.
It shall be unlawful to use, operate or permit for any noncommercial purposes any loudspeaker, public address system, mobile sound vehicle or similar device between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. such that the sound therefrom creates a noise disturbance across a residential real property boundary.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026-01: Local legislation current through May 18, 2026 | State legislation current through December 31, 2025).
Full Breakdown
Ohio counties do not run a general noise ordinance; quiet-hours are city or township matters. Canton, the county seat, prohibits under Cod. Ord. 509.03 'any unreasonably loud, disturbing or unnecessary noise... as to disturb the peace and quiet of the City' at all hours. A separate nighttime window (509.04) makes noncommercial loudspeakers, PA systems and similar amplified devices unlawful between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. when the sound creates a disturbance across a residential boundary. North Canton mirrors this in Chapter 531. Unincorporated Stark County residents fall under their township's zoning (ORC Ch. 519) plus the countywide nuisance authority of the Stark County Health Department.
Violations & Fines
Canton noise violations are a minor misdemeanor; amplified-device repeat offenses escalate to a fourth- then third-degree misdemeanor. Violations may also be enjoined as a nuisance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Stark County set quiet hours?
What are Canton's night hours?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Stark County
How Stark County compares: Cities with the Strictest Noise Ordinances·Compare Stark County to another location·View the Ohio noise ordinances overview
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