Raleigh, NC Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours (2026)

, local time, and every nighttime restriction in Chapter 5 keys off that definition. The operative prohibition, § 12-5007(c), targets the classic backyard-party and open-window complaint: playing any radio, phonograph, amplifier, television, stereo, tape deck, tape recorder, musical instrument, or similar device in such a manner or with such volume during nighttime hours as to annoy or disturb the quiet, comfort or repose of any reasonable person in any dwelling, hotel, motel or other type of residence. Unlike the daytime 'general prohibition' in § 12-5003, which requires the noise to be 'plainly audible' and unreasonably loud, this nighttime clause turns on whether a reasonable person's repose is disturbed, a lower bar tailored to sleeping hours.

m. Violations are enforced the same way as every other prohibited noise: Raleigh Police can issue a civil citation carrying a $250 penalty for a first offense and $500 for any repeat within 12 months, and the underlying conduct is also a misdemeanor under § 12-5011(c), punishable by up to 30 days in jail or a $500 fine. If a citation is issued, § 12-5010 additionally requires the person to immediately lower the volume, and a second increase within four hours or the same day can draw a direct police directive to comply.