If you’ve been reading The Northwest Current for the past few weeks, you may have noticed the back and forth in the “Letters to the Editor” about a wedding in the neighborhood.
The letter writers were not writing in to offer their congratulations. This wedding had to end its festivities shortly after 10 p.m. because a neighbor complained to the police.
Many of us have had the experience of hearing a party in the neighborhood that went on way beyond that time. And guess what, it is law that amplified music and even loud conversation must stop by 10. The nighttime decibel limit in a residential area is 55, which is the level of normal conversation or the sound of a typewriter (Yes, I know that dates me).
There is no way around it. Noise carries a long way. We have heard concerts at UDC or Carter Barron if the wind is blowing the right way, and even the whistle of the MARC train.
So no matter how diligent you are about giving notice to your neighbors, it may not be good enough. Play it safe and end your party at 10. See for yourself at dc.gov (PDF).
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