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City of Alexandria, VA

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  • Live

    Make the most of Alexandria's outstanding quality of life with information and services of interest to residents.

    • Be Prepared

      Are you ready? Find resources and information to help residents, businesses and visitors to prepare for all types of emergencies, and to stay safe.

      • Flooding Preparedness
      • Snow and Ice Control
      • Hurricane Preparedness
      • Emergency Preparedness
      • Public Health Emergency
    • Community Life

      Learn more about pets and animals, schools and libraries, parks and farmers' markets, community gardens, and more.

      • Community Gardens
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Parks
      • Pets
      • Recreation
    • Get Involved

      There are many opportunities to get involved to help better the City of Alexandria. Opportunities include serving on a Board, Commission or Committee, providing input on a new City project or speaking at a City Council meeting.

      • Boards and Commissions
      • Civic Engagement Policy
      • City Academies
      • Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
      • Speak at a Meeting
      • Volunteering
    • Getting Around

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus and Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Water Taxis
    • Historic Preservation

      Historic Alexandria is a treasure trove of early structures, artifacts, and records that creates a unique way of life for its citizens and provides enjoyment for thousands of people who visit this special community every year. The City continues to add resources to its collection of local and nationally designated historic districts.

      • Alexandria History
      • Board of Architectural Review
      • Historic Alexandria
      • Historic Districts
    • Licenses & Permits

      Find out whether a permit is required, the type of permit needed, fees involved, and what requirements are necessary for the activity you want to engage in Alexandria.

      • Building & Construction
      • Business Licenses
      • Health Permits
      • Marriage Licenses
      • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
    • Parking

      Information about parking in the City of Alexandria, including parking options, enforcement, districts and permits.

      • Contest a Parking Ticket
      • Guest Parking Permits
      • Parking Permits
      • Parking Studies
      • Parking in Old Town
      • Pay a Parking Ticket
    • Public Health & Wellness

      Alexandria is committed to ensuring our residents thrive through physical, mental, and social health.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Domestic Violence
      • Environmental Health
      • Environmental Quality
      • Health Department
      • Health Clinics
      • Sexual Assault
      • Substance Abuse Prevention
      • Substance Abuse Services
      • Teen Pregnancy Prevention
      • Teen Wellness Center
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Agencies and programs that help maintain our safety and overall quality of life. These links contain information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Fire Department
      • Police Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Circuit Court
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • General District Court
      • J&DR Court
      • Court Service Unit
    • Public Works

      Learn more about how the City maintains streets, sidewalks, bridges, and other infrastructure in the City.

      • Bridge Maintenance
      • Paving and Potholes
      • Sewer Maintenance
      • Street Sweeping
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Payments
      • Personal Property/Car Tax
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Real Estate Tax
      • Tax Guide
      • Tax Relief
    • Schools & Libraries

      Did you know that ACPS is one of the most diverse school systems in the country? Our students come from more than 80 different countries, speak more than 60 languages, and represent a myriad of ethnic and cultural groups. The Alexandria Library is an educational, user-oriented service institution providing free public access to recorded knowledge and ideas.

      • Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS)
      • Alexandria Library
      • Child Care
      • Higher Learning
      • Out of School Time Programs
    • Social Services

      The City provides public assistance as a safety net for individuals and families, including help with homelessness prevention, food, rent, utilities, medical coverage and prescriptions, job training and placement assistance, and much more.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Child Care Assistance
      • Homeless Services
      • Housing Resources
      • Mentoring Programs
      • Military & Veteran Services
    • Trash & Recycling

      Find information on the City's refuse, recycling and yard waste collection programs.

      • Recycling
      • Refuse Collection
      • Yard Waste
    • Utilities

      The City of Alexandria does not operate any public utilities. The following companies are the primary providers of their respective service:

      • Cable TV (Comcast / Xfinity)
      • Drinking Water (Virginia American Water)
      • Electricity (Dominion Energy)
      • Natural Gas (Washington Gas)
      • Sewage/Water Treatment (Alex Renew)
      • Wired Telephone (Verizon)
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  • Play

    Whether you live here or are just visiting, Alexandria is a great place to shop, dine, take in the arts, get outdoors, and just have fun.

    • About Alexandria

      If you are looking for small-town charm and big-city amenities, Alexandria is the place to find them. Alexandria has a fascinating history, and many of its historic buildings are still preserved today. The City's many historic homes, churches, businesses, and museums allow residents and visitors alike to experience the past that makes it the charming town it is today.

      • Alexandria's History
      • Demographics & Statistics
      • Maps & GIS
      • Visit Alexandria
    • Arts & Culture

      Through engaging the community, encouraging participation, and facilitating access to arts and culture, the City builds a vibrant community for its residents, workers, and visitors.

      • City Concerts
      • City Events
      • Historic Property Rentals
      • Museums & Historic Sites
      • Office of Historic Alexandria
      • Office of the Arts
    • Entertainment

      Find events and activities, shops and restaurants, concerts and performances, arts and culture, historic attractions, parks and libraries, farmers' markets, and more.

      • City Concerts
      • City Events
      • Office of the Arts
      • Visit Alexandria: Things to Do
    • Getting Around

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus & Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Water Taxis
    • Museums & Historic Sites

      Alexandria is a desirable location to live, work and play. The City owns many of the premier historic sites in Alexandria and it is charged with the conservation, interpretation and promotion of these links to the past.

      • City Museums
      • Historic Sites & Attractions
      • Office of Historic Alexandria
    • Parks & Recreation

      Alexandria is an active community that offers more than 900 acres of parks and dedicated public space, and a wide variety of neighborhood and recreation centers, pools, dog parks, farmers' markets, waterfront activities and more.

      • Classes & Camps
      • Dog Parks
      • Facility & Park Rentals
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Marina & Waterfront Parks
      • ParkLink Interactive Map
      • Parks & Trails
      • Pools & Aquatics
      • Recreation Centers
      • Sports Leagues & Programs
    • Visit Alexandria

      Information about visiting Alexandria, including shopping, dining, attractions, accommodations, events listings and more. Plan your visit with an itinerary builder, interactive maps, hotel booking, online restaurant reservations and much more.

      • Group Tours
      • Meet in Alexandria
      • Plan Your Visit
      • Trip Planning Assistance
      • Visitor Center
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  • Services

    We are here to serve you. Browse the topics to the right to learn more about the programs and services we offer.

    • Alex311

      Connect with professional and knowledgeable staff for City service and information requests from every City department.

      • Missed Collection
      • Parking
      • Potholes
      • Street Cleaning
      • Trash & Recycling Containers
      • Trees
      • Yard Waste / Bulky Items Pickup
    • Animals

      What you need to know about animals, pets and wildlife in Alexandria.

      • Animal Adoption
      • Animal Control
      • Dog Parks
    • Buildings & Construction

      The City provides services to residents, businesses, contractors, and visitors needing permits for constructions and other developments.

      • Building Codes
      • City Code
      • Code Administration
      • Green Building
      • Land Use & Zoning
      • Permit Center
      • Permits & Land Use Applications
    • Environment

      "Green" initiatives, air quality, noise, water conservation, mosquito and rodent control.

      • Air Quality
      • Clean Waterways
      • Climate Change
      • Eco-City Alexandria
      • Green Building
      • Mosquito Control
      • Noise Control
      • Rodent Control
      • Stormwater Management
    • Jobs
      • City Government Jobs
      • Alexandria City Public Schools
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Collective Bargaining
    • Maps & GIS

      Geographic Information Systems (GIS) centrally manages, shares and analyzes information about locations through specialized mapping technology. This information increases transparency, improves many City technology applications and provides critical data to decision makers and the public.

      • Interactive Maps
      • Open Data
      • Standard Maps
    • Parks & Recreation

      Alexandria is an active community that offers more than 900 acres of parks and dedicated public space, and a wide variety of neighborhood and recreation centers, pools, dog parks, farmers' markets, waterfront activities and more.

      • Classes & Camps
      • Dog Parks
      • Facility & Park Rentals
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Marina & Waterfront
      • Parks & Trails
      • Pools & Aquatics
      • Recreation Centers
      • Sports Leagues & Programs
    • Property & Housing

      The City administers various housing-related programs and services.

      • Housing Master Plan
      • Landlord & Property Manager Resources
      • Maps & GIS
      • Office of Housing
      • Parcel Viewer
      • Real Estate Assessments
    • Public Health & Wellness

      Alexandria is committed to ensuring our residents thrive through physical, mental, and social health.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Emergency Mental Health Services
      • Environmental Health
      • Environmental Quality
      • Health Department
      • Health Clinics
      • Sexual and Domestic Violence Services
      • Substance Abuse Services
      • Teen Pregnancy Prevention
      • Teen Wellness Center
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Agencies and programs that help maintain our safety and overall quality of life. These links contain information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Fire Department
      • Police Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Circuit Court
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • General District Court
      • J&DR Court
      • Court Service Unit
    • Public Works

      Learn more about how the City maintains streets, sidewalks, bridges, and other infrastructure in the City.

      • Bridge Maintenance
      • Paving & Potholes
      • Sewer Maintenance
      • Street Sweeping
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Payments
      • Personal Property/Car Tax
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Real Estate Tax
      • Tax Guide
      • Tax Relief
    • Social Services

      The City provides public assistance as a safety net for individuals and families, including help with homelessness prevention, food, rent, utilities, medical coverage and prescriptions, job training and placement assistance, and much more.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Child Care
      • Children & Families
      • Discrimination & Disabilities
      • Gang & Youth Violence Prevention
      • Homeless Services
      • Housing Assistance
      • Human Rights
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Mentoring Programs
      • Military & Veteran Services
    • Trash & Recycling

      Find information on the City's refuse, recycling and yard waste collection programs.

      • Recycling
      • Refuse Collection
      • Yard Waste
    • Transportation

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus & Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Transportation Planning
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  • Business

    Ideally located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is nationally recognized as one of the best places to live and do business on the east coast. Learn how we can help you start or relocate your business in Alexandria, and access resources for existing businesses and commuters.

    • Business Resources

      The City provides services and resources to help existing businesses expand within the City and promotes recruiting new businesses in Alexandria.

      • Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP)
      • Alexandria Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
      • BIPOC Small Business Program
      • Doing Business with the City
      • New Business Guide
      • Public-Private Partnerships
    • Jobs

      Alexandria offers wide range of job opportunities and services. Work for City government or City Public Schools, find out about an internship opportunity or learn about workforce development and career training options.

      • City Government Jobs
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Collective Bargaining
    • Licenses & Permits

      Find out whether a permit is required, the type of permit needed, fees involved, and what requirements are necessary for the activity you want to engage in Alexandria.

      • APEX Permitting & Land Use System
      • Business Licenses
      • Business Outdoor Program & Permits
      • Health Permits
      • Permit Center
      • Zoning Information
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Business License Tax
      • Business Personal Property Tax
      • Lodging Tax
      • Meal Tax
      • Payments
      • Real Estate Assessment Search
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Sales Tax
    • Transportation

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Getting Around
      • Vehicle Registration
      • GO Alex Commuter Resources
      • Parking in Alexandria
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  • Government

    Learn more about Alexandria's accountable, effective, and well-managed government.

    • City Council

      The Alexandria City Council is composed of a Mayor and six Council members who are elected at-large for three-year terms. The Mayor, who is chosen on a separate ballot, presides over meetings of the Council and serves as the ceremonial head of government.

      • City Council Calendar
      • Communicate with City Council
      • Council Assignments
      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Speak at a Meeting
    • Boards & Commissions

      The City of Alexandria has a strong commitment to citizen participation as evidenced by the number of citizen boards and commissions established by City Council. These bodies compose a formal system through which citizens can advise City Council on all major issues affecting the City.

      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Apply for a Board or Commission
      • Boards & Commission Calendar
      • Boards & Commission Vacancies
      • Board of Architectural Review
      • Board of Zoning Appeals
      • Planning Commission
      • Park & Recreation Commission
      • Transportation Commission
    • Departments & Agencies

      View a list of City departments, offices and other agencies, and learn about their role in the organization.

      • City Government Departments & Offices
      • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
      • Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
      • Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS)
      • Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP)
      • Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA)
      • Alexandria Transit Company (DASH)
      • Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA)
      • Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
      • Visit Alexandria (Official Tourism Site)
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Police Department
      • Fire Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Courts
      • Office of Emergency Management
      • Emergency & Customer Communications
      • Community Policing Review Board
    • Elected Officials

      Alexandria voters elect a Mayor and City Council and three local officers, as well as state and federal representatives.

      • City Council
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • Commonwealth's Attorney
      • Sheriff
      • Voting in Alexandria
    • Get Involved

      There are many opportunities to get involved to help better the City of Alexandria. Opportunities include serving on a Board, Commission or Committee, providing input on a new City project or speaking at a City Council meeting.

      • Boards & Commissions
      • City of Alexandria Academy Programs
      • Civic Engagement Policy
      • Speak at a Meeting
      • Volunteering
    • Transparency

      The City government acts with integrity in an open process, and provides timely access to clear, trustworthy information, presented and employed by all parties from the beginning to the end of the process, including the reasoning that leads to and supports the policy conclusion.

      • Operating Budget & Capital Improvement Program
      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Performance Analytics
      • Alexandria's Strategic Plan
      • Race & Social Equity
      • Community Policing Review Board
      • Collective Bargaining
      • City Code
      • Open Data
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  • Projects & Plans

    Much of our work involves creating and improving infrastructure and planning for the future. Learn more about major projects and plans here, and how you can get involved!

    • Arts & Culture

      Information about arts, culture and historic projects in the City.

      • Arts & Culture Master Plan
      • Public Art Implementation Plan
    • Development

      Information about commercial and residential development projects in the City.

      • Landmark/Van Dorn Area Planning
      • North Potomac Yard Implementation / Virginia Tech Innovation Campus
      • Potomac River Generating Station Redevelopment
    • Environmental

      Information about environmental and "green" projects in the City.

      • 500 Block N. Pitt St. Sewer Separation Project
      • Flood Action Alexandria
      • Franklin St. Sewer Relocation Project
      • Holmes Run Trail Repairs
      • Lucky Run Stream Restoration
      • Oronoco Outfall Remediation Project
      • Wheeler Ave. Sanitary Sewer Pipe Relining
      • Windmill Hill Park Project - Phase II
    • Neighborhoods

      Information about neighborhood projects in the City.

      • Alexandria West Planning
      • Duke Street and West Taylor Run Project
      • Eisenhower Avenue Metrorail Station Pedestrian Crossing Improvements
      • King-Callahan-Russell Intersection Improvement Project
      • Mount Vernon Avenue North Complete Streets
    • Parks & Recreation

      Information about parks and recreation projects in the City.

      • Beauregard Street Multi-Use Trail Project
      • Bicycle Parking
      • Eugene Simpson Park Renovation Projects
      • Joseph Hensley Park Renovation
      • Old Cameron Run Trail Project
      • Robinson Terminal South Update: Historic Ship Stabilization
    • Public Facilities

      Information about public facilities projects in the City.

      • Alexandria Waterfront
      • King Street-Old Town Metro Access Improvement Project
      • Municipal Broadband
      • Potomac Yard Metrorail Station Project
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      Information about social services projects and plans in the City.

      • Aging and Adult Services
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      • The Partnership to Prevent & End Homelessness
    • Transportation

      Information about transportation projects and plans in and around the City.

      • Adaptive Traffic Signal Control
      • Alexandria Mobility Plan
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      • Potomac Yard Metrorail Station Project
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      • Vision Zero
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Noise Control

The objective of Noise Control is to prevent any noise that annoys or disturbs the comfort, health, welfare, environment, peace, or safety of any person in the City of Alexandria.
Page updated on October 20, 2022 at 1:32 PM

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Revised Noise Ordinance in Effect as of Jan. 1, 2022

The City of Alexandria's revised noise control ordinance, which offers more protection in residential areas, went into effect on Jan. 1, 2022. 

City Council unanimously voted to pass the revised noise control ordinance at the Dec. 18, 2021 public hearing, after considering extensive public input and reviewing noise control regulations at neighboring jurisdictions. City Council’s adoption culminated in a comprehensive effort to make the City’s noise control ordinance legally enforceable and more protective of residential areas, while allowing reasonable vibrancy in the business corridors during business hours.

The following policy changes are effective immediately:

  1. Do-it-yourself (DIY) construction activities are regulated by the permitted hours of 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Friday, and 9 a.m.to 9 p.m. on weekends and holidays;
  2. Permissible noise limits at the property lines are determined by the property use category of the noise source;
  3. The City adopts a more restrictive plainly audible standard from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. in residential areas.
  4. The “Noise in Public Places - Central Business District” provisions are expanded to the entire City for regulating noise in public places in all parts of the City.
  5. Loading, unloading and delivery activities are prohibited between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. if they occur within 500 feet of residential areas;
  6. The decibel standard for commercial use is increased to 65 dB(A) for daytime hours of 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., while the nighttime standard remains at 60 dB(A);
  7. The civil penalty for noise violations is increased to $100 for the first violation, $250 for the second violation and $500 for the third violation.

The Department of Transportation and Environmental Services Office of Environmental Quality (703.746.4065) will respond to noise complaints during regular business hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday. The Alexandria Police Department (703.746.4444) will respond to noise complaints during nighttime, weekends and holidays. Residents can also call 311 to log their complaints or use Alex 311 portal on the City website to report noise issues.

Noise Code in Alexandria

To review the City's Noise codes, see Section 11, Chapter 5 of the City of Alexandria's Code of Ordinances.

What is Noise Control?

The most common sources of noise include, but are not limited to:

  • Construction activities
  • Aircraft
  • Loud neighbors
  • Traffic
  • Leaf blowers and other lawn equipment
  • Loud music, "boom cars"
  • Sirens, car alarms, horn honking
  • Barking dogs and other animals

What is the City Doing?

The Environmental Noise Protection Program in the City of Alexandria consists of the following elements:

  • Incorporating U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recommended guidelines in the construction of new residential and commercial developments to meet indoor noise standards.
  • Use of the City's 311 system to report noise complaints from citizens and to address those concerns in a timely manor.
  • Assessing the compliance and non-compliance of noise sources according to City's Noise Code and taking enforcement action where warranted.

The Office of Environmental Quality (OEQ) and the Alexandria Police Department (APD) are responsible for enforcing Noise Control code in the City of Alexandria. An interim noise enforcement procedure has been effective since May 2021 until a more robust and permanent enforcement procedure and resources are implemented. According to this interim enforcement, OEQ is the primary responder for noise complaints during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) while the Police Department responds to noise complaints during after-hours and weekends. The Noise Control Code can be found in Section 11-5 in the Alexandria City Code. You may download a PDF copy of the Noise Code, or you may obtain a hard copy of the Noise Code by calling 703-746-4065 or by visiting the Office of Environmental Quality, 2900B Business Center Drive, Alexandria.

Sec. 11-5-12 of the Code describes the civic  penalties that may be imposed by OEQ/APD for noise violations. Civil penalties range from $50 to $500, depending on the severity of the offense. 

Please see Sec. 11-5-12 of the Code for more details on civic penalties. OEQ makes every effort to work with individuals to resolve noise issues before resorting to punitive measures. 

  • Information for Street Performers in Old Town 
  • Coordination of Enforcement Efforts Between T&ES and Police Department Regarding the Noise and Noise Related Codes
    • Memorandum from Yon Lambert, Director, T&ES, to Earl Cook, Chief, Alexandria Police Department, September 20, 2016

 

How to Lodge a Complaint

The Department of Transportation and Environmental Services, through its Office of Environmental Quality (OEQ) administers and enforces the provisions of the Noise Code. The Police Department, Code Administration, and Construction & Inspection Division are also responsible for enforcing the Noise Code.

OEQ answers complaints during regular business hours. Submit a complaint online with OEQ or call 703.746.4065.

Code Administration enforces the construction, construction devices and power equipment provisions of the Noise Code. Lodge a complaint online or call 703.746.4200.

The Police Department has a non-emergency phone number for complaints after regular business hours (after 5 pm on weekdays, during weekends, and Holidays when City Hall is closed). To lodge a complaint, please call 703.746.4444.

When lodging a complaint, please remember to include: 1) a description of the noise your experiencing; 2) your contact information if you would like a return call; 3) the location of your complaint; 4) time, date, and duration of the complaint; and 5) any additional information that will assist the staff with resolving the issue.

Sec. 11-5-12 describes the civic and criminal penalties that may be imposed by DEQ for noise violations. DEQ makes every effort to work with individuals to resolve noise issues before resorting to punitive measures. 

What is Unlawful Noise?

Unlawful Noise is determined initially by testing the noise against ten different standards, as found in Section 11-5-4.

  • Decibel Level of noise;
  • Source of noise, 
  • Zoning of the area within which the noise emanates;
  • Time of day or night the noise occurs;
  • Duration of the noise;
  • Whether the noise in recurrent, intermittent or constant.

The Office of Environmental Quality  must then determine if the noise is a violation of the Noise Code, and may impose civic or criminal penalties, as described in Sec. 11-5-12. OEQ makes every effort to work with individuals to resolve noise issues before resorting to punitive measures. 

Decibel Chart: How Loud Are You?

Unwanted sound is called noise. Sound is perceived when there is a variation of the static air pressure. Compared to the static air pressure, the variations that can be perceived by the ear are very small. The response of the ear is logarithmical rather than linear to the stimuli and therefore the acoustic parameters are expressed as a logarithmic ratio of the measured value to the reference value. This logarithmic ratio is called decibel (dB).

Aircraft Noise

Information on Washington National Airport Aircraft Noise

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority voluntarily launched an interactive Community Complaint Dashboard.

The Complaint Dashboard provides easy access to noise complaint data while allowing the public to independently conduct preliminary research to answer:

  • WHEN: Complaints by Date, Complaints by Hour
  • WHERE: Zip Code Heat Map and Statistics Table

View additional information about efforts and progress towards mitigating aircraft noise at Washington National Airport, through the MWAA Community Working Group (including Alexandria)

Through its participation in the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority National Airport Aircraft Noise Community Working Group, Alexandria successfully achieved support for ensuring aircraft flight over the city is minimized.  View updated information on the Federal Aviation Administration's advisory to air traffic controllers regarding the use of early turns from National Airport when air traffic is in south flow.  Aircraft may only take early turns over Alexandria, rather than flying the prescribed FAA procedure for aircraft flying south from the airport (south flow), to or beyond the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, before turning inland, are only to be allowed  in the case of weather changes, safety or national security.  The minimization of early turns results in reduced aircraft noise for Alexandria residents.

Construction Noise

The use of Construction Devices and Power Equipment (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)15) is permitted during the following hours:

  • Monday - Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Sunday: Prohibited

The use of Pile Drivers (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)19) is permitted during the following hours:

  • Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Sunday: Prohibited

All construction is prohibited on the following holidays (Sec. 11-5-5(a)(5)a):

  • New Year's Day (the first day of January)
  • Memorial Day (the last Monday in May)
  • Independence Day (July 4)
  • Labor Day (the first Monday in September)
  • Thanksgiving Day (the fourth Thursday in November)
  • Christmas Day (December 25)

The use of all Construction Equipment, including Pile Drivers, is regulated by permitted hours, not by decibel levels. 

AFTER HOURS CONSTRUCTION WORK 

In most cases, construction activities must be permitted by the City prior to operation outside of the permitted hours. Applicants must fax in a completed permit application, which, upon approval, must be picked up at the OEQ office.

Permits are granted to applicants on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must demonstrate that operation during the permitted hours is not feasible. The application should also demonstrate how this noise allowance outside normal hours will benefit the City of Alexandria (e.g., mitigate traffic issues).

Section 11-5-7 of the City Noise Code describes the process required to apply for a noise variance. Please see Permits and Variances for more information.

TIPS FOR REDUCING CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES NOISE

The noise generated from construction sites is often characterized as being inherent to the process. Some of the noisiest devices utilized by workers are drills, saws, hammers, and generators. Despite popular belief, contractors can be successful at creating a quieter construction site by strategically identifying problematic noise sources and implementing measures such as the following:

  • Install temporary barriers/enclosures around noisy activities or equipment.
  • Consider implementing quieter process. For example, supplement pile driver activities with boring operations whenever possible.
  • Retrofit older equipment with sound absorbing material or add new mufflers.
  • Follow the manufacture's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure proper functionality of the equipment.
  • Identify excessively noisy equipment and locate it as far away as possible from local residents.

Lawn & Garden Noise

The use of Power Lawn and Garden Equipment (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)16), including lawn mowers, edgers, and leaf blowers, is permitted during the following hours:

  • Monday - Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Holidays: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Tips for Reducing Lawn and Gardening Equipment Noise 

• Limit the use of leaf blowers only during leaf collection season and not year-round.

• Avoid using gas-powered leaf blowers early in the morning or for long periods of time.

• Consider using rakes or battery-powered leaf blowers as an alternative.

• If you are considering purchasing new leaf blowers, we recommend purchasing battery-powered units, as their effectiveness has significantly improved.

Noise emanating from lawn and gardening equipment has become a source of increasing concern in the City of Alexandria. The most troublesome of these tools are the leaf blowers, trimmers, and lawn mowers. When operating this equipment, the following tips will help minimize disturbance to your neighbors.

  • Try to operate equipment during the afternoon or early evening hours. If at all possible, avoid operating equipment on Sundays.
  • Purchase electric-powered equipment versus gasoline-powered equipment. Most electric-powered devices are considerably quieter than their gasoline-powered counterparts.
  • Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure proper functionality of the equipment.
  • Substitute power equipment with hand tools, reel mowers, lawn sweepers, rakes, and hand clippers.

Other Noises

VEHICLE NOISES 

  • Truck Delivery, Loading, Unloading, Opening Boxes (Sec.11-5-4 (b)9): Loading and unloading is permitted after normal business hours, provided that the operation does not cause excessive noise. Excessive noise is defined by Sec. 11-5-3 "Tests for unlawful noise." Businesses that operate under special use permits may have additional restrictions placed on them during business hours.
  • Bus/Truck Idling Noise: Vehicles may run their engines at idle for no longer than 10 minutes at any time according to State of Virginia Air Quality Regulations.
  • Trash Pickup Hours: Trash Pickup Hours are set by Title 5, Chapter 1 of the City Code. From May 1 to September 30, waste haulers are not permitted to begin operating before 6:00 a.m. From October 1 to April 30, waste haulers are not permitted to begin operating before 7:00 a.m. If City residents have a complaint about trash pickup noise, they are encouraged to call the Code Enforcement at 703.746.4200 and report the hauler name and license plate or truck identification number.
  • Train Noise

    Per the City noise code section 11-5-6 (6 & 8), any railroad operated in conformity with, or pursuant to federal laws and regulations are exempt. Noises resulting from the operation of rail rapid transit systems are also exempt.  The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) does not regulate the use of train horns. However, FRA requires operating railroads to develop and enforce a set of operating rules and City staff regularly consults with train operators when a specific noise issue arises.  Construction on railroad property is regulated by Sec. 11-5-4 (10 & 15).

     

  • Aircraft Noise (Sec. 11-5-6-5): Aircraft are exempt from the City Noise Code. However, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the most noise-controlled airports in the United States. Under the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority's regulations, aircraft may be only operated after 9:59 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m. if the noise level for the aircraft type and model meets National Airport's strict noise standards, which are designed to minimize sleep interference. Complaints can be logged with the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority (MWAA) by calling 703.417.8020. For more information, please visit the MWAA Noise Abatement Program website.
    • Presentation to Old Town Civic Association on Aircraft Noise at Reagan National Airport, October 12, 2016 
  • Vacuum truck noise in parking lots: There is no code reference for the use of vacuum trucks; however, if they produce excessive noise, then they are considered to be an "unreasonable" noise. These trucks can be classified as construction noise.
  • Truck Braking Noise: The City of Alexandria has signs posted on major truck thoroughfares that instruct truck drivers not to use "Jake Brakes." A Jake Brake is a component of the engine system that allows trucks to slow down without wearing down the wheel brakes. When engaged, it rapidly decompresses the air pressure in the engine, emitting a loud noise.
  • Car Muffler Noise: The Police Department should be contacted in regards to car muffler noises. Please call the non-emergency police phone number 703.746.4444.
  • Car Alarm Noise: The Police Department should be contacted in regards to car alarm noises. Please call the non-emergency police phone number 703.746.4444.
  • Ice Cream Truck Noise (Sec.11-5-4(b)1): OEQ mails guidance letters to mobile ice cream vendors annually in the spring. Vendors are not permitted to play music in excess of ten seconds; they must also limit the frequency of the music played to once per two minutes per City block.

RESIDENTIAL NOISES 

  • AC/Heat Pump Noise (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)17): In residential areas, the noise code allows up to 55 decibels at the property line; in commercial areas, the noise code allows up to 60 decibels at the property line; in industrial areas, the noise code allows up to 70 decibels at the property line. The same restrictions apply for other noises generated within the property line, such as wind chimes or fans.
  • Speaker Noise (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)2): The operation of any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, or any other sound reproducing device is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if the sound is plainly audible across property boundaries at a distance of 50 feet from the source of the noise.
  • TV/Stereo Noise (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)2): The operation of any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, or any other sound reproducing device is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if the sound is plainly audible across property boundaries at a distance of 50 feet from the source of the noise.
  • Block Parties: Block parties must obtain a noise variance permit from OEQ and contact Construction and Inspection Division for an Application to Close City Street permit.
  • Parties at Home: No special permits are issued for private parties. All private parties must comply with the noise code.
  • Barking Dogs and other Animals (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)5): Residents may call the Department of Animal Control to discuss techniques to train noisy pets, services to help animals and their companions, or register complaint against licensed or unlicensed pets. The Alexandria Department of Animal Control can be reached by calling 703.746.4774 or by visiting alexandriaanimals.org.
  • Homeowner Construction Work (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)10): Homeowners are exempt from the Construction Hours provision of the Noise Code. This exemption does not apply when work involves use of power equipment, nor does it apply when the homeowner is acting as a general contractor and/or working for commercial purpose. Homeowners may engage in construction operations at their residences during the following permitted hours:
    Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
    Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

INSTITUTIONAL NOISE 

  • Church Services: Churches must comply with the noise code.
  • School Activity Noise: Schools must comply with the noise code.
  • Noise in Public Places (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)4): Loud noises are not permitted in public places between the hours 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
  • Central Business District Noise Regulations (Sec. 11-5-4.1): The Central Business District (CDB) is located in Old Town, Alexandria and is bounded to the east by the Potomac River; to the south by Duke Street; to the west by S. Peyton Street and N. West Street; and to the north by Queen Street. Due to the busy nature of the CBD, the hours and volume of permitted noise is different than in the rest of the City.  
    • Between the hours 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., no sounds may be louder than 75 decibels, nor may they be sustained for greater than 60 seconds in any one hour period.
    • Between the hours 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., no sounds may be louder than 65 decibels, nor may they be sustained for greater than 60 seconds in any one hour period  
  • Advertising Noise (Sec.11-5-4 (b)3): Audio commercial advertising is prohibited in the City of Alexandria, with the exception of political advertising.
  • Street Performer Noise (Sec.11-5-4.1(c,d): OEQ does not issue special permits for street performers in the right-of-way or the street. At no time may the streets or sidewalks be blocked without the proper right-of-way permits. The permitted noise levels are governed by Central Business District restrictions:
    • Between the hours 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., no sounds may be louder than 75 decibels at a distance of 10 feet from the place at which the sound is being generated or produced. The burden of proof shall be on the person responsible for such sound generation to prove otherwise.
    • Between the hours 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., no sounds may be louder than 65 decibels at a distance of 10 feet from the place at which the sound is being generated or produced. The burden of proof shall be on the person responsible for such sound generation to prove otherwise.

Permits & Variances

The City Manager, or his duly authorized representative, may grant permits for relief of the City Noise Code on the basis of undue hardship from a noise level or time limits designated by the City.

In most cases, construction activities must be permitted by the City prior to operation outside of the permitted hours. Applicants must fax in a completed permit application, which upon approval, must be picked up at the Transportation and Environmental Services, Construction and Inspection office. The permit fee is $50.00 per permit.

Permits are granted to applicants on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must demonstrate that operation during the permitted hours is not feasible. The application should also demonstrate how this noise allowance outside normal hours will benefit the City of Alexandria. For more information, please see Section 11-5-7 of the City Noise Code.

If you are planning to use sound amplification equipment on City property (streets, parks, etc.), or if your event is on private property but is open to the public, you may be required to obtain a Noise Variance Permit to operate sound amplification equipment in the City. 

Information about the City's permit application and requirement process may be found here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

GENERAL NOISE ISSUES 

What is a decibel? How loud are everyday events?
A decibel (dB) is a unit for describing sound pressure levels. A-Weighted sound measurements (dBA) are filtered to reduce the effect of very low and very high frequencies, better representing human hearing.

For example, ordinary conversation between two people standing three feet away is measured at 60 dBA lawn mower produces 100 dBA rock concert produces more than 120 dBA.

Please see the Decibel Chart for details.

Does the City of Alexandria have "quiet hours"?
Yes. It is unlawful for any person to make unreasonably loud or unnecessary noise in public places between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Please see Sec. 11-5-4 (b)4 in the Noise Code for details.

How does OEQ determine if a noise is unreasonably loud or unnecessary?
Unlawful Noise is initially determined by testing the noise against ten different standards, as found in Section 11-5-3.

  • Decibel level of noise;
  • Source of sound
  • Zoning of the area within which the noise emanates;
  • Time of day or night the noise occurs;
  • Whether the noise in recurrent, intermittent or constant; and
  • Whether the noise is produced by a commercial or noncommercial entity.

In addition, and when necessary, OEQ has the authority to exercise discretion on a case-by-case basis when a noise issue falls outside of the parameters of the ten standards listed above.

CONSTRUCTION NOISE ISSUES 

What are the regular hours in which Construction is allowed?
Construction is permitted during the following hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Sunday: Prohibited

The use of Pile Drivers (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)19) is permitted during the following hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Sunday: Prohibited

All construction is prohibited on the following holidays (Sec. 11-5-5(a)(5)a.):

  • New Year's Day (the first day of January)
  • Memorial Day (the last Monday in May)
  • Independence Day (July 4)
  • Labor Day (the first Monday in September)
  • Thanksgiving Day (the fourth Thursday in November)
  • Christmas Day (December 25)

Why are some construction operations allowed after the permitted hours?
In most cases, construction activities must be permitted by the City prior to operation outside of the permitted hours. Applicants must submit  a completed permit application, which, upon approval, must be picked up at the Permit Center in City Hall.  Permits are granted to applicants on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must demonstrate that operation during the permitted hours is not feasible. For more information, please see Section 11-5-7 of the City Noise Code.

VEHICLE NOISE ISSUES 

There are car alarms in my neighborhood that go off at night. Who should I call?
Please call the Alexandria Police Department non-emergency number 703.746.4444.

What about loud car stereos, mufflers and motorcycles?
Please call the Alexandria Police Department non-emergency number 703.746.4444.

The garbage trucks wake me up in the morning. What are their permitted hours of activity?
Trash Pickup Hours are set by Item 5, Chapter 1 of the City Code. From May 1 to September 30, waste haulers are not permitted to being operating before 6:00 a.m. From October 1 to April 30, waste haulers are not permitted to begin operating before 7:00 a.m. If City residents have a complaint about trash pickup noise, they are encouraged to call the Code Enforcement at 703.746.4200 and report the hauler name and license plate or truck identification number.

The airplanes that fly over the City on their way to the airports are very loud. Is there a way for the City to alter their flight path?
Aircraft are exempt from the City Noise Code. However, the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the most stringently noise-controlled airports in the United States. Under the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority's regulations, aircraft may be only operated after 9:59 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m. if the noise level for the aircraft type and model meets National Airport's strict noise standards which are designed to minimize sleep interference. Complaints can be logged with the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority MWAA complaint line  by calling 703.417.1204 . For more information, please visit the MWAA Noise Abatement Program website. Please see Sec. 11-5-6-5 for the full Code reference.

The trains are very loud. Do they have to blow their steam whistles?
The City of Alexandria cannot regulate train noise due to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) regulations (Sec. 11-5-6-6, 8). However, construction on railroad property is regulated by Sec. 11-5-4 (b)15: "Construction Devices and Power Equipment."

RESIDENTIAL NOISE ISSUES 

My neighbor is adding onto his residence. What are the permitted hours for homeowner construction?
In general, homeowners can conduct general construction work in the same permitted hours as those for power lawn and garden equipment. Homeowners are exempt from the Construction Hours provision of the Noise Code (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)10). This exemption does not apply when work involves use of power equipment, nor does it apply when the homeowner is acting as a general contractor and/or working for commercial purpose. Homeowners may engage in construction operations at their residences during the following permitted hours:  

  • Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Holidays:: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

My neighbor plays loud music throughout the night. Can OEQ make them stop?
OEQ does not handle disputes between neighbors. The best solution would be to talk to your neighbor face to face and kindly ask them to respect your need for quiet. If you live in an apartment building, you might consider contacting the building management. If you are still unable to resolve the dispute, please call the Alexandria Police Department non-emergency phone number 703.746.4444.

I hear dogs barking at night. Is there anyone I can call to make them stop?
The proper authority to contact is the Department of Animal Control at 703.746.4774.

Our neighborhood wants to have a block party. What forms do we need to fill out to close the street down and play loud music?
You need an Application to Close City Street form and a Petition to Close City Street for a Neighborhood Block Party form. These forms must be submitted to the Construction Management and Inspection Division, located in Room 4130 in City Hall. Upon approval of the street closure permit, the applicant must apply for a Noise Variance Permit: Music and Sound Amplification. This permit must be submitted to the Office of Environmental Quality, located in Room 3900 in City Hall.

INSTITUTIONAL NOISE ISSUES 

I want to play musical advertisements outside of my place of business. Is this legal?
No. According to Sec.11-5-4 (b)3 of the City Noise Code, audio commercial advertising is prohibited within the City of Alexandria, with the possible exception of political advertising.

If audio commercial advertising is prohibited within the City of Alexandria, why are ice cream trucks allowed to play music?
Mobile ice cream vendors are not permitted to play music in excess of ten seconds; they must also limit the frequency of the music played to once per two minutes per City block. Please see Sec. 11-5-4(b)1 of the City Noise Code for more details.

VARIANCES AND SPECIAL PERMITS 

I want to apply for a special permit or a variance to the Noise Code. How do I do this?
Applicants must fax in a completed permit application, and then pick it up at Construction and Inspection office (Room 4130, City Hall) after it is approved. There is a fee for the application. Permits are granted to applicants on a case-by- case basis, and they must demonstrate that operation during the permitted hours is not feasible. For more information, please see Section 11-5-7 of the City Noise Code.

Downloads & Forms

  • Application for Noise Variance Permit: through City's on line APEX system
    • Construction 
    • Music and Sound Amplification 
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