Jacksonville Pickleball Noise Ordinance

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What the Code Says

What Jacksonville's Noise Rules Mean for Pickleball Courts

Jacksonville's numeric noise limits live in JEPB Rule 4, the Environmental Protection Board's noise rule, which was amended April 20, 2026 and took effect May 11, 2026. It sets decibel limits by the land use of the property making the sound and the property receiving it, splits the day at 10:00 p.m., and measures at the complainant's property line. Rule 4 does not mention pickleball.

at a glance

Jacksonville Noise Rules at a Glance

Day: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Rule 4 defines daytime as 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and nighttime as 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Source: Rule 4, 4.101(H) and (AA)

Daytime Limit at Residential Land

Sound reaching Class B (residential) land may not exceed 55 dBA from Class A or B land, 60 dBA from Class C land or 65 dBA from Class D land during the day. Source: Rule 4, 4.203(A)

Nighttime Limit at Residential Land

At night the limit to Class B land is 55 dBA from Class A, B or C land and 60 dBA from Class D land. Source: Rule 4, 4.203(B)(2)

Impulsive Sound

Rule 4 sets a separate limit for impulsive sound, measured on the meter's fast setting. Sound from Class A or B land reaching Class A or B land is capped at 55 dBA. Source: Rule 4, 4.208

the code

How the Jacksonville Code Applies to Pickleball

This page summarizes public municipal code for general information only. It is not legal advice. Ordinances change, so confirm current rules with the City of Jacksonville or a licensed Florida attorney.

Where Sound Is Measured

Readings are taken at the complainant's property line, or on a right-of-way or public land, at least 10 feet from the source. Source: Rule 4, 4.103(D)

Limits Depend on Land Use

Rule 4 sorts land into classes by land-use code and sets a different limit for each pairing of source land and receiving land, along with octave band limits. Source: Rule 4, 4.201 and 4.203

Impulsive Sound Has Its Own Table

Paddle strikes are short, sharp sounds, and Rule 4 handles impulsive sound in a separate section measured on the fast meter setting. Source: Rule 4, 4.208

Exceptions Are Narrow

The exceptions in Rule 4 include the unamplified human voice and permitted fireworks or outdoor musical entertainment. The rule does not list an exception for parks or athletic courts. Source: Rule 4, 4.212

Who Enforces It

Rule 4 is enforced under Ordinance Code Chapters 360 and 368, and any law enforcement officer of the city may issue a citation. Source: Rule 4, 4.107

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does Jacksonville have a pickleball noise ordinance?

    Not by name. Court noise falls under JEPB Rule 4, which sets decibel limits by land use. Pickleball is not mentioned in the rule.

  • What are the quiet hours in Jacksonville?

    Rule 4 treats 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. as nighttime, when the limit at residential land is 55 dBA from residential sources, per Rule 4, 4.101 and 4.203(B). The rule does not set court play hours.

  • Who enforces noise rules in Jacksonville?

    Rule 4 says it is enforced under Ordinance Code Chapters 360 and 368 and that any city law enforcement officer may issue a citation, per Rule 4, 4.107.

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