Durham Ordinances & Policies
See below for the most important ordinances students need to know.
- Durham’s noise ordinance applies 24/7 but becomes stricter after 11pm:
- Before 11pm the noise level is 60 decibels, or the volume of 2 adults having a "normal" conversation.
- After 11pm, the noise level is 50 decibels, or the volume of 2 adults having a "quiet" conversation.
- Durham’s noise ordinance results in criminal consequences: you can be cited and have to appear in court for a violation.
- The noise ordinance covers “unreasonably loud” or “disturbing” noise and specifically prohibits amplified music after 11pm.
- First time violations will NOT receive a warning, and will be referred to the Durham County Misdemeanor Diversion Program and/or be issued a citation.
- Keep your yard clean! The City of Durham requires residents to keep trash out of their yard.
- You can be issued a notice of violation and/or a fine and are required to clean up the trash within 10 days.
- Take your bins in! The City of Durham requires residents to take their trash cans in between pick up days, i.e. you cannot just leave your trash/recycling bins at the curb all of the time.
- If you have a yard, it is often your responsibility to keep the lawn mowed and the yard maintained. Check with your landlord to learn if yard maintenance is your responsibility. Violations can result in a fine from the city.
- No couches on the porch or in your yard: You are not allowed to have indoor furniture outdoors, whether it’s on your porch, in your yard, or in your driveway.
- You can be issued a notice of violation and/or a fine and are required to remove the furniture within 10 days.