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Be A Good Neighbor

Be A Good Neighbor

Being a good neighbor in Durham means knowing local laws and ordinances, being connected to your neighbors, and learning about local history and culture.

Durham ordinances you need to know:

  • Durham’s noise ordinance covers “unreasonably loud” or “disturbing” noise and specifically prohibits amplified music after 11pm.
  • Durham’s noise ordinance results in criminal consequences: you can be cited and have to appear in court for a violation.
  • The noise ordinance applies any time of day or night 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.
  • First time violations will receive a warning
  • Duke students will then either receive a criminal citation or be referred to the Durham County Misdemeanor Diversion Program.
  • 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.

Trash & Recycling

Durham History & Culture

Durham is your home for the time you’re at Duke. Take the time to learn it’s history.