Residential Neighbor Noise
All residents in Asheville must abide by Asheville's noise ordinance. Noise caused by residents can be deemed a noise disturbance.
The following criteria are used to determine whether sound from residential neighbors constitutes a noise disturbance:
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Whether the noise occurred during the day or night (10:00 pm - 7:00 am);
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Nature and zoning of the area;
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Volume and intensity;
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Frequentness and duration of the noise; and
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Whether the noise has been enhanced in volume or range by any type of mechanical means, like a megaphone or amplifier.
If you are experiencing neighbor noise and safety is not an issue, the first step is to reach out to your neighbor and politely let them know they are causing a noise disturbance. It is very common that neighbors do not know they are causing a problem and will change their behavior. Review additional tips here.
If you live in an apartment, condo or deed restricted community and your neighbor continues to make an unreasonable level of noise, contact your building owner, super, HOA or tenant association. Many apartment, condo and deed restricted communities have rules about noise and are obligated to address noisy neighbors.
To report a noise disturbance from a residential neighbor on Monday-Friday, click the "next" button below to file a complaint with the Development Services Department. Staff will follow up with you during business hours (M-F 8:30 am - 5:00 pm; closed public holidays) should they require additional information.
If you are reporting a noise disturbance from a residential neighbor on Friday after 5:00 pm or Saturday/Sunday, please call the Asheville Police Department’s (APD) non-emergency line at 828-252-1110.
Please be advised that APD responds to calls for service based on the severity of the call. Noise ordinance violations have lower priority than other criminal offenses. Officers will respond to noise ordinance complaints once higher priority calls have been cleared.
If your safety is in question, please call 911.