Noise Policy & Quiet Hours
A noise policy defines quiet hours and the consequences for breaking them. Combined with a noise sensor (NoiseAware, Minut), it cuts neighbor complaints by ~85% and is allowed by Airbnb and Vrbo. This is the StayFlow playbook used by thousands of short-term rental hosts in 2026.
What is noise policy & quiet hours?
Key takeaways
- Standard quiet hours: 10 PM – 8 AM
- Noise sensor cost: $150 – $250 + $10/mo
- Complaint reduction: ~85%
- Audio-recording sensors — banned by Airbnb and Vrbo.
- Threatening eviction in the first alert; escalate calmly.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard quiet hours | 10 PM – 8 AM |
| Noise sensor cost | $150 – $250 + $10/mo |
| Complaint reduction | ~85% |
Step-by-step playbook
- Step 1Step 1
Set quiet hours that match your city's noise ordinance.
- Step 2Step 2
Install a noise sensor in the main living area (decibel-only, no audio recording).
- Step 3Step 3
Auto-text the guest the first time the threshold is hit.
- Step 4Step 4
Document every alert; it's the basis for any deposit claim.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Audio-recording sensors — banned by Airbnb and Vrbo.
- Threatening eviction in the first alert; escalate calmly.
- Bedroom-only sensor placement; the party is in the living room.
Drill deeper
- Austin
- Nashville
- Miami
- New York
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Chicago
- Seattle
- Denver
- Asheville
- Charleston
- San Diego
- New Orleans
- Portland
- Lake Tahoe
- Park City
- Aspen
- Joshua Tree
- Savannah
- Boston
- Portland
- Atlanta
- Phoenix
- Scottsdale
- Sedona
- Tucson
- San Diego
- San Jose
- Sacramento
- Palm Springs
- Lake Tahoe
- Big Sur
- Carmel
- Napa
- Sonoma
- Santa Barbara
- Mammoth Lakes
- Boise
- Coeur d'Alene
- Sun Valley
- Cabins
- Beach houses
- Condos
- Villas
- Tiny homes
- Lofts
- Treehouses
- A-frames
- Yurts
- Lakehouses
- Ski chalets
- Mansions
- Studio
- 1 bedroom
- 2 bedrooms
- 3 bedrooms
- 4 bedrooms
- 5 bedrooms
- 6 bedrooms
- 7+ bedrooms
Frequently asked questions
- Are noise monitors allowed on Airbnb?
- Yes — decibel-only sensors are explicitly allowed and must be disclosed in the listing. Audio-recording devices are prohibited inside the home.
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Reviewed by StayFlow Editorial · Last updated 2026-06-07 · Cite as: StayFlow, “”.