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Steady Tonal Noise
To promote the public health, safety and welfare, as well as the peace and quiet of the inhabitants of Prince William County, Neighborhood Services staff along with acoustic professionals will adhere to the provisions of Chapter 14 of the Prince William County Code as modified and effective May 1, 2026, when determining “steady tonal” noise violations and take appropriate enforcement and mediation action.
Violations of Chapter 14 are structured to begin with graduated civil penalty fines followed by Class 4 and Class 3 misdemeanors for non-abated violations over time. The County Code regulates specific times that noise sources and types of noise can be generated and defines noise limits accordingly.
If you suspect the County noise ordinance for “steady tonal noise” is being violated, visit PWC 311 (available via phone, website, or app) for county services or call the non-emergency line at 703-792-6500.
Chapter 14 Noise Ordinance (specific to Steady Tonal Sound)
- Definitions - See: Sec. 14-3 at Steady Tonal Sound
- Max Permissible Sound Levels - See: Sec.14-4 (b) and review exceptions found within the entirety of Section 14-4
- Measurement Procedures - See: Sec.14-7
- Trash or refuse collection - See: Sec.14-6
- Variances - See: Sec. 14-8 & exceptions found within Sec. 14-4
The Police Department also has information regarding the violation of the Noise Ordinance regarding other types of noises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Expand all- How do I file a complaint regarding violations of steady tonal noise?
You can do so by calling 311. (PWC311 is available via phone, website, or app.) You may also call the Public Safety Non-Emergency number at 703-792-6500 or by calling the Department of Public Works at 703-792-7018. Public Works is responsible for investigating complaints on Steady Tonal Noise violations only. Complainant will be required to provide their name and contact information. Anonymous complaints will not be accepted.
- Who inspects/investigates steady noise complaints?
Sound inspections are conducted by Department of Public Works staff who are familiar with the equipment and in a manner that is consistent with the requirements of the County Noise Ordinance.
- How long will it take to have my complaint sound tested?
Our goal is to be onsite testing the noise within 48-72 hours from the time we receive the initial complaint, unless there are exigent circumstances. The staff member assigned to the case should be in contact with you within 2 business days of being assigned the code case. You may be asked for permission to enter the property, if it is deemed necessary. You can assist this process by providing accurate contact information during the process of making the complaint.
- Will sound testing be conducted on my private property?
Sound testing should be done at locations that are open to the public. If testing is required on private property or areas not open or accessible to the public, you will be asked to provide access. Permission to enter the property after business hours should be in written form (email or letter written on company letterhead).
- What sound testing equipment are to be used?
All sound meter testing related to a violation of the Noise Ordinance is conducted using a Type 1 sound meter. Only Type 1 sound meters capable of measuring both C-weighted, A-weighted, and 1/3 octave bands measurements, which meet the standards prescribed by the ANSI, are used for inspections.
- After the inspection/testing is completed, how will I find out the results?
You will hear back from the Department of Public Works staff member once sound meter readings are collected and analyzed. An acoustic engineer analysis may be required to make a finding, which can take some time. Do not hesitate to reach out to your assigned inspector/acoustic engineer assigned to your case for information.