Quiet hours in Providence, RI — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Providence regulates noise under Chapter 16, Article III of the city code. Residential zones have a 55 dBA limit from 8 PM to 7 AM and a 65 dBA limit during the day. Sound amplifying equipment may not exceed 75 decibels or be audible beyond 200 feet.
Providence's noise control ordinance (Chapter 16, Article III) sets decibel limits by zone and time of day. In residential zones, nighttime noise (8 PM to 7 AM) may not exceed 55 dBA and daytime noise (7 AM to 8 PM) may not exceed 65 dBA. Commercial and noncommercial sound amplifying equipment must not exceed 75 dBA and must not be audible more than 200 feet from the source. Exceptions exist for emergency vehicles, public works, and permitted events. The Providence Police Department handles noise complaints.
Violations may result in fines starting at $100 for the first offense and increasing for repeat violations. Equipment may be confiscated.
Providence, RI
Providence has no general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Decorations must stay within pr...
Providence, RI
Providence has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must remain on private property and ...
Providence, RI
Providence does not have a dedicated ordinance restricting residential holiday lighting. General electrical safety and nuisance standards apply. Permanent ex...
Providence, RI
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Providence require permits from the Department of Inspection and Standards when they involve gas, plumbing, electrical, or stru...
Providence, RI
Providence treats wood, pellet, and charcoal smokers the same as charcoal grills under NFPA 1 Section 10.11.7 (Rhode Island State Fire Code). Use on balconie...
Providence, RI
Rhode Island has adopted NFPA 1 (the National Fire Protection Association Uniform Fire Code, 2018 edition) under R.I. Gen. Laws Section 23-28.1 as the State ...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Providence County.
See how other cities in Providence County handle quiet hours.
See how Providence's quiet hours rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.