Disturbed by karaoke noise in Vietnam? Call your ward police immediately

As the days leading up to the 2026 Tet holiday (which begins on February 17) approach, many residents say they are troubled by the nuisance of neighborhood karaoke. 

The government has issued Decree 282/2025 with stricter regulations, marking a significant shift in the handling of noise violations, particularly gatherings involving karaoke singing in residential areas and public spaces. 

One of the most notable new points is the removal of time limits for penalizing noise violations. 

Previously, acts such as playing loud music or singing karaoke were typically handled only if they occurred between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am the following day. Under the new decree, penalties apply at all hours.

The decree allows authorities to receive complaints from residents and conduct on site inspections.

If violations are found, penalties can be imposed without the need to measure noise levels, as was previously required.

When neighbors show signs of violating Decree 282/2025 by causing excessive noise, residents can immediately contact the local police in their area for assistance.

Authorities will base their actions on current regulations and the specific behavior of the violator.

Under the rules, the authority to penalize noise violations such as karaoke singing or playing loud music rests with the commune–level People’s Committees, commune–level police, and specialized units of provincial and centrally–governed city police.

This provides a legal basis for authorities to respond promptly and effectively to complaints from the public.