Shelby County, TN Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours (2026)
Quiet hours in Shelby County, TN, also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time, define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Key Facts
- Code Chapter
- Ch. 16, Art. III
- General Rule
- Sec. 16-61
- Quiet Hours
- 11 p.m.–7 a.m. (Sec. 16-63)
- Applies In
- Unincorporated Shelby County
- Penalty
- Fine up to $50/day
Summary
Shelby County Code Chapter 16, Article III governs noise in unincorporated Shelby County. Sec. 16-61 bans any unreasonably loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise 24/7, and Sec. 16-63 sets an amplified-sound quiet window of 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
The creating of any unreasonably loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise is prohibited. Any noise of such character, intensity or duration as to be detrimental to the life or health of any individual or in disturbance of the public peace and welfare is prohibited except as hereinafter provided.
Full Breakdown
The county rule applies in the unincorporated areas of Shelby County; incorporated cities (Memphis, Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown, Millington, Arlington, Lakeland) enforce their own noise codes. Sec. 16-61 prohibits any unreasonably loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise at all hours. Sec. 16-63 singles out amplified sound, radios and instruments 'particularly during the hours between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.' when it disturbs residents or persons nearby. There are no countywide clock-based decibel curfews beyond this; enforcement is by fine under Sec. 16-67, up to $50.00 per violation, each day a separate offense.
Violations & Fines
Under Sec. 16-67, a violation is punishable by a fine not to exceed $50.00 for each separate violation, and each day it continues is a separate offense. Sec. 16-68 makes repeated violations a public nuisance abatable by injunction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Shelby County's quiet hours?
Does this apply inside Memphis?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
How Shelby County compares: Cities with the Strictest Noise Ordinances·Compare Shelby County to another location·View the Tennessee noise ordinances overview
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