Yes. Section 24-182 of the Leesburg Town Code outlines the town's noise ordinance. This ordinance has been in effect since 2009 and was amended in 2020 to extend the hours for amplified outdoor music on the weekends.
What kind of noise ordinance does Leesburg have?
Leesburg's noise ordinance does not rely on decibel levels for enforcement purposes. Rather, it uses a variety of standards depending on the type of sound in question. Certain types of sounds, like amplified music, are regulated based on whether or not they can be heard from certain distances away from the source property. Other sounds, like lawnmowers or some types of construction equipment, are regulated only by the hours during which they may occur. Other types of sounds, like emergency vehicle sirens or noise associated with certain types of governmental activities, are exempt from regulation.
Does the Leesburg noise ordinance use decibels?
No. Leesburg's noise ordinance does not use a decibel based system.
What are the time restrictions in the noise ordinance?
The following time restrictions regarding excessive noise apply:
Construction noise, including pneumatic hammers, chain saws, pile drivers, steam shovels, and similar equipment, is prohibited from 10 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.
Noise from lawnmowers and other lawn care equipment is prohibited from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Fireworks and similar devices are prohibited from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Yelling, shouting, and singing are prohibited from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Amplified outdoor music is allowed from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
All other forms of excessive noise are prohibited, unless specifically listed as an exception in Section 24-182(4) of the Leesburg Town Code.
Does the Leesburg noise ordinance apply to businesses and residents equally?
Yes. If any business or resident creates excessive noise, the ordinance applies equally.
What are the penalties for violating the Leesburg noise ordinance?
A violation of the noise ordinance is a class 2 misdemeanor. In addition, if you have an approved amplified noise permit, two violations of the noise ordinance will result in the cancellation of the permit for a six-month period of time. A violation is defined as the issuance of a written summons by the Leesburg Police Department.
How do I file a noise complaint?
To report possible violations of the noise ordinance, please call the Leesburg Police Department dispatch at 703-771-4500 for an immediate response, or use our online Nuisance Complaint form for ongoing concerns that do not require an immediate response (this form is not monitored 24/7).
Does the Leesburg noise ordinance allow amplified outdoor music?
Yes. Amplified music may be played outdoors between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Please click here for the best practices.
How do I obtain permission for amplified outdoor music?
The amplified noise permit application has been suspended as the town reviews the process. Businesses, residents, and event organizers are still obligated to comply with the town’s noise ordinance when hosting amplified outdoor music. However, they are no longer obligated to submit an application for review and approval.
Where can I find the full content of the Leesburg noise ordinance?
The full text of the Leesburg noise ordinance is found in Section 24-182 of the Leesburg Town Code.
