Foggy Bottom residents are frequently disturbed and awakened by loud music, large parties, and people making noise while walking in the neighborhood at night. Unfortunately, the problem seems to get worse each year.
District of Columbia law states that “It is unlawful for a person to make an unreasonably loud noise between 10:00 pm and 7:00 am that is likely to annoy or disturb one or more other persons in their residences.” Violation of this law is considered disorderly conduct, a criminal offense.
Additionally, if a GWU student violates this law, it is considered a violation of the GWU Student Code of Conduct. University Police will investigate all noise complaints made by residents, request that the noise stop, and report any violations. GWU will take appropriate action against students who repeatedly violate the law and the Student Code of Conduct.
GWU encourages all residents to report any loud noise to the University Police at 202–994– 6110 (press 0 to reach a dispatcher). You can make a complaint anonymously. You can also report noise, public drinking, and other violations to the DC Metropolitan Police by dialing 911.
Under the law, the DC Metropolitan Police can arrest individuals whom they determine are violating the noise ordinance. The violation is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $500 fine. Because of the different responsibilities and levels of authority of GWU and MPD, the best advice is to make *two* phone calls if noise is disturbing you – one to (202) 994‑6110, and one to 911.
Residents are encouraging GWU to be more proactive and aggressive in dealing with students who violate the noise law. Foggy Bottom residents have requested that GWU follow the lead of Georgetown University and patrol residential areas every weekend night from 10 pm until 3 a.m.
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