Noise Ordinance in Arizona (AZ)
Arizona has moderate enforcement of noise regulations. Arizona has a statewide noise statute that sets baseline standards. Cities may adopt stricter local ordinances. The typical residential nighttime noise limit is 55 dB, with quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Fines for violations range from $150-$2,500.
Noise Regulations in Arizona
Overview
Arizona has a state criminal nuisance statute (ARS 13-2917) that covers excessive noise. Cities set specific decibel limits. Phoenix and Scottsdale have particularly detailed noise codes.
Residential Noise Limits
In Arizona, the typical residential noise limit is 65 dB during the day and 55 dB at night. These limits are measured at the property line of the receiving property using the A-weighted decibel scale (dBA). Some jurisdictions within Arizona use a "plainly audible" standard instead of or in addition to specific decibel measurements.
Quiet hours — the period when stricter nighttime limits apply — run from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM in most Arizona jurisdictions. During these hours, activities that generate noise above the nighttime limit may result in a citation. Exemptions typically apply to emergency services, emergency repairs, and certain agricultural operations.
Construction Noise
Construction in Arizona is generally permitted from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays. Some cities allow Saturday construction with shorter hours (often 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM), while Sunday and holiday construction is typically prohibited in residential areas. Emergency construction and utility repairs are usually exempt from time restrictions.
Fines and Penalties
Noise ordinance violations in Arizona typically carry fines ranging from $150-$2,500. First-time offenders usually receive a warning or the minimum fine. Repeat offenders face escalating penalties. In some jurisdictions, chronic noise violations can be classified as misdemeanors, and equipment generating the noise may be subject to seizure. Commercial establishments that repeatedly violate noise codes may face license suspension or revocation.
State Law
Arizona has a statewide noise statute that establishes baseline noise standards. This law sets maximum permissible noise levels by zone classification and time of day. Cities and counties within Arizona may adopt stricter standards than the state baseline, but they cannot be more lenient. The state environmental or health department typically enforces industrial and commercial noise standards, while local law enforcement handles residential noise complaints.
City Noise Ordinances in Arizona
The following table shows noise ordinance details for 5 cities in Arizona. City-level rules may be stricter than the state standard. Click the city name for specific details.
| City | Day Limit | Night Limit | Quiet Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 65 dB | 55 dB | 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM | Phoenix City Code Chapter 23 sets specific dB limits by zone; construction allowed 6 AM-7 PM weekdays. |
| Tucson | 62 dB | 52 dB | 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM | Tucson Code Chapter 16 uses both dB limits and disturbance standards. |
| Scottsdale | 60 dB | 50 dB | 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM | Scottsdale has strict entertainment district noise rules; residential limits are lower than Phoenix. |
| Mesa | 65 dB | 55 dB | 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM | Mesa's noise code focuses on sound plainly audible at 50 feet during quiet hours. |
| Tempe | 64 dB | 54 dB | 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM | Tempe has special provisions for Mill Avenue entertainment district. |
How to Handle Noise Issues in Arizona
- Document everything: Keep a log of noise incidents including dates, times, duration, and type of noise. Record audio or video if possible.
- Talk to your neighbor first: Many noise issues can be resolved with a polite conversation. Your neighbor may not realize they are causing a disturbance.
- File a complaint: Contact your local non-emergency police line or 311 service. Have your noise log available when you call.
- Know your rights: The noise limits in your area are enforceable by law. Repeat violations can result in fines of $150-$2,500 in Arizona.
- Consider mediation: Many cities offer free mediation services for neighbor disputes, which can be faster and less adversarial than enforcement.
- State law applies: Arizona has statewide noise standards, giving you a baseline of protection regardless of your specific municipality's code.
States with Similar Noise Enforcement
These states have the same enforcement level as Arizona (Moderate Enforcement):
| State | Night Limit | Quiet Hours | Fines | State Law? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona (AZ) | 55 dB | 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM | $150-$2,500 | Yes |
| Alaska (AK) | 50 dB | 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM | $100-$500 | No |
| Colorado (CO) | 50 dB | 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM | $150-$1,000 | Yes |
| Delaware (DE) | 50 dB | 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM | $100-$500 | Yes |
| Maine (ME) | 50 dB | 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM | $100-$500 | No |
| Minnesota (MN) | 50 dB | 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM | $200-$700 | Yes |
Need More Information?
Use our noise ordinance lookup tool to quickly check any state or city's rules, or browse all 50 states + DC to compare noise ordinances across the country. Remember: noise rules vary by specific jurisdiction. Contact your local code enforcement office for the most current regulations in your area.