Louisville, KY Short-Term Rentals: Noise Rules (2026)

Louisville Metro regulates short-term rentals under LMCO Chapter 115 (short-term rental ordinance), which requires registration and sets operational standards. Noise at STR properties is governed by general rules: approximately 55 dBA daytime and 50 dBA at night at the property line per APCD Regulation 5.11, and Chapter 99 prohibitions on plainly-audible disturbances. What distinguishes STRs is enforcement posture — repeated verified noise complaints can trigger fines, registration suspension, or revocation. Hosts are required to post the registration number and a local contact number that must respond within a reasonable time (often specified as 60 minutes) to resolve complaints. Hosts operating in single-family residential zones face stricter de facto scrutiny than those in mixed-use or multifamily zones. Many hosts install decibel monitoring devices (NoiseAware, Minut) and include noise clauses in guest agreements. Outdoor amplified music after 10 PM, pool parties, and large gatherings are the most common complaint drivers in Louisville neighborhoods near Cherokee Park, the Highlands, and St. Matthews.