Suffolk, VA Short-Term Rentals: Noise Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- STR noise rule
- General city ordinance
- Night window
- 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- Standard
- Plainly audible 50 feet
- Host presence
- Owner on premises
Summary
Suffolk has no rental-specific noise rule. Guests follow the same Chapter 34 noise ordinance as residents: sound plainly audible across a property line or 50 feet away is a Class 2 misdemeanor, with amplified and vocal noise barred 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Operating, playing, or permitting the operation or playing of any radio, amplifier, television, record, tape or compact disc player, drum, musical instrument or similar device: In such manner or with such volume as to permit sound to be heard across a residential real property boundary.
Full Breakdown
No separate short-term rental noise standard exists in Suffolk. A rental guest is bound by the general noise ordinance in Chapter 34, Article VI. Music, televisions, and amplified devices plainly audible across a residential boundary or 50 feet from the source violate Section 34-189(1) at any hour, and loudspeakers, yelling, or shouting are barred between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Because a bed-and-breakfast operator must live on or adjacent to the premises under Section 31-703(h), the host is on hand to control guest noise. A conditional use permit can be revoked for repeated nuisance.
Violations & Fines
Guest noise violating Section 34-189 is a Class 2 misdemeanor and public nuisance, up to six months in jail and $1,000. Repeated nuisance can also jeopardize the conditional use permit at review or renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there special noise rules for Suffolk rentals?
Can noise complaints shut down a rental?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Suffolk
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