Raleigh Enforces New Amplified Sound Regulations Starting Jan. 1

Beginning January 1, 2026, Raleigh will implement new amplified sound regulations following an approval by the City Council in October. The regulations aim to impose stricter decibel limits to mitigate noise disturbances affecting residents.

New Noise Regulations Overview

The updated ordinance specifically targets amplified sounds from commercial properties, such as bars, restaurants, and clubs. The changes respond to growing concerns about the negative impacts of excessive noise on health, including stress, sleep disruption, high blood pressure, and hearing impairment.

Decibel Limitations

The city plans to set decibel limits that fluctuate based on time, day of the week, and geographical area. For instance, the Glenwood South region will have more lenient limits due to its vibrant nightlife scene.

• Citywide noise limits from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays (Sunday to Thursday) will be:
  • 70 dB(A) and 75 dB(C)
• Weekend (Friday to Saturday) limits during the same hours will remain:
  • 70 dB(A) and 75 dB(C)
• Nighttime restrictions:
  • From 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday: 55 dB(A) and 60 dB(C)
  • From 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 55 dB(A) and 60 dB(C)

Permits and Special Cases

Businesses outside of the Glenwood South area can apply for permits to either exceed or lower their sound limits. The maximum allowable levels with a permit for the general city will be:

• Sunday to Thursday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.: Up to 80 dB(A) and 88 dB(C)
• Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.: Permits may allow for adjusted levels

Glenwood South Regulations

Glenwood South has distinct decibel limits, reflecting its status as a nightlife hub:

• Sunday to Thursday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.:
  • 80 dB(A) and 88 dB(C)
• Sunday to Thursday, 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.:
  • 75 dB(A) and 80 dB(C)
• Friday and Saturday, 10 p.m. – midnight:
  • 82 dB(A) and 92 dB(C)
• Saturday and Sunday, midnight – 2 a.m.:
  • 80 dB(A) and 88 dB(C)

Complaint Process and Penalties

Starting January 1, residents can file noise complaints via the Ask Raleigh portal. Upon receiving a complaint, the Raleigh Police Department will dispatch a code enforcement team to investigate the issue.

Businesses found in violation of these new noise regulations will face a progressive penalty system:

• Two warnings will be issued for initial violations.
• A third violation results in a $1,500 fine.
• A fourth violation leads to a prohibition of outdoor sound equipment for 18 months.

These measures represent Raleigh’s commitment to balancing vibrant nightlife with the need for peaceful living environments for all residents.