The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Fayetteville, AR
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Industrial zones have limits of 80 dB(A) for day (7 AM-11 PM) and 75 dB(A) for night (11 PM-7 AM). For a transient sound emanating in any land use category, the peak noise level shall not exceed 20 decibels above the set limit. All measurements are taken with a sound level meter in its fast or peak level setting. When a noise source can be identified and measured in more than one use district, the noise level limits of the most restrictive use district shall apply at that district boundary."
AI Executive Summary
Fayetteville, AR's noise ordinance (Chapter 96) prohibits unreasonable noise. Residential zones limit noise to 55 dB(A) from 11 PM to 7 AM and 60 dB(A) otherwise. Commercial zones have limits of 70 dB(A) (night) and 75 dB(A) (day). Noise audible over 150 feet from residences/businesses is prohibited 1 AM-8 AM. Construction near residences is restricted 11 PM-7 AM (9 AM Sundays).
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Late night construction noise from private development activity is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (except Sundays, when it extends to 9:00 a.m.) if plainly audible at or near any residence within 150 yards of the activity. Emergency construction activity to repair or prevent a dangerous condition is exempt if authorized in advance or ratified later by the Mayor. Construction projects are generally subject to the limitations specified for industrial zones for the period of time allowed by the building permit.
Amplified Sound
It is unlawful to use, operate, or permit the playing of any radio, musical instrument, phonograph, loudspeaker, sound amplifier, or other device for producing or reproducing sound for the purpose of commercial advertising or attracting public attention to any building or structure, if the sound is cast upon public streets from a point of origin located on private property. General amplified sound is subject to the stated decibel limits for respective zones.
Animals
Any animal which, by causing frequent or long continued noise, disturbs the comfort or repose of any person in the vicinity is considered a noise disturbance. There are no specific decibel limits or quiet hours for animal noise explicitly stated within the provided Fayetteville ordinance excerpts, with such issues falling under the general definition of a noise disturbance.
Vehicles
Sound (music) coming from a vehicle at any time should not be heard from a distance greater than 30 feet and be plainly audible. The use of compression release engine brakes (jake brakes) is prohibited in the city limits. No person shall operate or cause to be operated a motor vehicle or motorcycle by rapidly advancing its throttle (revving) such that a noise disturbance occurs.
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