Quiet hours in Winston-Salem, NC — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Winston-Salem noise ordinance sets quiet hours from 11 PM to 7 AM in residential zones. Sound plainly audible 50 feet beyond the property line during quiet hours is a civil violation. WSPD enforces complaints.
The Winston-Salem Code of Ordinances Chapter 38 (Noise) prohibits unreasonably loud, disturbing, or unnecessary noise. Quiet hours are 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM Sunday through Thursday, and 11:30 PM to 7:00 AM Friday and Saturday. Residential sound limits are typically 60 dBA daytime and 55 dBA at nighttime at the property line. The plainly audible standard applies to amplified sound audible 50 feet from its source during quiet hours. State law N.C.G.S. 14-288.4(a)(2) addresses disorderly conduct by loud noise as a Class 2 misdemeanor. Winston-Salem Police respond to complaints; repeat violations escalate from warnings to civil citations.
First offense: warning. Second offense: civil citation around 100 dollars. Subsequent offenses: up to 500 dollars. Criminal charges under N.C.G.S. 14-288.4 possible for disorderly conduct.
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