Colleges and universities tend to have strict rules about on-campus noise, including quiet hours and restrictions around parties. Noise violation allegations can have significant consequences for students living both on and off-campus. At DC Student Defense, former federal prosecutor and defense attorney Shan Wu, has decades of experience providing legal support for students facing noise violation allegations.
What is a Noise Violation?
Definitions of a noise violation vary from school to school. State laws generally define excessive noise as any unreasonably loud noise likely to annoy or disturb persons in their residence. Noise levels are often regulated as follows:
- During the day, noise should not exceed a certain decibel level (e.g., 60 decibels)
- At night, noise thresholds are lower (e.g., 55 decibels)
Colleges and universities may define noise violations differently. They expect students to be mindful of noise levels at all times but enforce “Quiet Hours” more strictly. These quiet hours are often defined as follows:
- Weeknights after 9:00 PM
- Weekends at a later time
- Entire periods before examinations
Violating quiet hours can result in a report by a Residential Advisor, leading to disciplinary hearings and sanctions. Universities usually also have policies that are not time-restrictive, and may act on excessive noise complaints at any time of day. In addition, off-campus noise is often considered a violation of the code of conduct if it disturbs the community.
What are the Consequences of a Noise Violation?
Though noise violations may not seem as serious as other infractions, they can still have severe consequences, including impacts on disciplinary standings and scholarships. Here are some common consequences for noise violations:
- Academic probation
- Temporary or permanent loss of housing
- Loss of scholarship
- Suspension
- Expulsion
In addition, negative marks on your academic record, which could affect scholarships and future employment opportunities.
At DC Student Defense, we have extensive experience with university disciplinary proceedings and can help negotiate with all parties to reduce and eliminate the consequences of a noise violation.
What to Do if You Receive a Noise Violation Citation
Facing noise violation allegations can disrupt your college experience and future. It’s important to take the following steps to make sure your rights are protected throughout the process.
- Contact a student defense attorney immediately
- Read through your school’s residential conduct and community standards and code of conduct to understand your rights in a student disciplinary hearing
- Don’t speak to anyone about your case
Contact DC Student Defense to discuss your case and explore your defense options. Let us help safeguard your academic and personal future.
What Our Clients Say
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive a noise violation citation from my university?
If you receive a noise violation citation, it’s important to contact a student defense attorney immediately. Don’t speak to anyone about your case, and review your university’s conduct code and the potential consequences.
Can I be held responsible for a noise violation if I wasn't home when the incident occurred?
Yes, you can still be held responsible. Universities often hold all residents of a house, dorm, or apartment accountable for noise violations, regardless of whether you were present during the incident. It’s important to communicate with your roommates about noise levels and to know your university’s policies.
How can a noise violation affect my academic standing and future opportunities?
Noise violations can have significant impacts, including loss of housing, probation, suspension, or expulsion. In addition, negative marks on your academic record, which could affect scholarships and future employment opportunities.
