Quiet hours in Washington, DC — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Washington DC enforces noise control under 20 DCMR Chapters 27-28, with residential limits of 60 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime measured at the property line. Quiet hours run 10 PM to 7 AM, during which enforcement may rely on subjective disturbance assessment rather than decibel readings.
DC's noise regulations are found in 20 DCMR Chapters 27 (Noise Control), 28 (Maximum Noise Levels), and 29 (Noise Measuring Test Procedures). Residential zones are limited to 60 dBA during daytime and 55 dBA at night, measured at the receiving property line. Between 9 PM and 7 AM, the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) may deem noise a disturbance based on subjective assessment without decibel measurement under 20 DCMR 2799.1. The Amplified Sound Mitigation Act of 2024 (D.C. Law 25-313) added a 90 dBA limit at the source in residential zones and a 55 dBA limit inside the nearest residential unit for amplified sound. DOEE and the Department of Buildings (DOB) share enforcement authority.
Civil fines for noise violations range from $500 to $2,000. Repeat offenders face escalating penalties and potential equipment seizure for amplified sound violations.
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See how Washington's quiet hours rules stack up against other locations.
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