Amplified sound rules for some businesses in Raleigh take effect on Jan. 1: What to know

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Raleigh City Council adopted changes to its noise ordinance in October, and those new rules will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Tuesday, the city out reminder and breakdown of how the ordinance will work. In addition, the city says it will launch a website specific to the ordinance on Jan. 1.

The new rules will only apply to amplified sound from commercial establishments, like bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. It is designed for citizens to file a complaint if they think the decibel levels exceed the rules based on location. The city says allowed decibel levels will vary based on time of day, day of the week, and location.

Enforcement

Starting New Year's Day 2026, community members can submit noise complaints to the Ask Raleigh customer experience center. Raleigh Police Department will be notified immediately.

• If a complaint is called in to 911, the call taker will add the information to Ask Raleigh.

• The Raleigh Police Department (RPD) will dispatch its code enforcement unit and they will respond to the location and investigate.

• If decibel levels are in violation, RPD will enforce the violation according to the ordinance.

The web page coming in January will provide information about acceptable decibel limits, how to apply for decibel permits, and FAQs about filing complaints.

Penalties

• Civil penalties will be assessed for the first three verified noise violations.

• If four violations occur, no outdoor amplified sound equipment will be allowed outdoors on that property for 18 months.

Current rules will continue to apply to all other noise.