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Step 1 of 3Arvada, CO
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Limits are for stationary noise sources for more than 90% of a measurement period (minimum 10 minutes). Pure tone, cyclically varying, or repetitively impulsive noise exceeding 5 dB(A) less than general limits is unlawful. Fluctuating or intermittent noise greater than 15 dB(A) over ambient, or exceeding 70 dB(A) in residential areas, is unlawful."
AI Executive Summary
Arvada, CO noise ordinances, outlined in Article II of the City Code, generally prohibit excessive or unusually loud noise from 9 PM to 7 AM, which is considered a noise disturbance. The city sets maximum permissible continuous sound pressure levels for various land use districts. Special event permits may offer relief from these regulations.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM in residential or business districts. Construction projects are subject to light industrial noise level limits.
Amplified Sound
Unlawful if plainly audible at property boundaries, through party walls/ceilings/floors, or plainly audible at 25 feet from a vehicle. Loudspeakers and sound amplifying equipment require a permit.
Animals
Barking dog complaints can be filed with Animal Control. Feeding of wildlife is prohibited in city parks or golf courses.
Vehicles
Sounding of horns is restricted to danger warnings, with exceptions for weddings and sports victories within two hours of completion. Motorcycles manufactured after December 31, 1982, must have an EPA noise label. Operation of refuse compacting vehicles exceeding 75 dB(A) at 50 feet to the rear is prohibited.
Other
Alarms and bells sounding for more than five minutes or between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM are prohibited. Fireworks/explosives creating impulsive noise or disturbance between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM are restricted. Loading operations causing a noise disturbance between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM are unlawful. Recreational activities like model aircraft with internal combustion engines or model rockets are prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Arvada protect residents from noise?
55 dB day / 50 dB night
Extensive coverage
Standard fines
5 noise categories regulated
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Arvada, CO?
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Arvada's quiet hours: 9:00 PM - 7:00 AM. During these hours, noise must stay below residential nighttime decibel limits at the property line. Violations can result in fines on the first offense.
What are the noise decibel limits in Arvada?
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Arvada's residential noise limits: 55 dB(A) dB(A) during the day and 50 dB(A) dB(A) at night. Commercial zones allow 60 dB(A). Limits are measured at the receiving property line.
How do I file a noise complaint in Arvada?
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Call the Arvada police non-emergency line at 303-980-7300. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at 720-898-7465. Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Arvada?
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Arvada's noise violation penalties: Violations are punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both, not to exceed the limits established in Section 1-5 of the Arvada City Code. These monetary limitations are adjusted annually for inflation.. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Arvada?
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Arvada's rules: Barking dog complaints can be filed with Animal Control. Feeding of wildlife is prohibited in city parks or golf courses.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at 720-898-6850 (business hours), 303-980-7300 (after hours/urgent) or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Arvada?
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Arvada's construction noise rules: Prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM in residential or business districts. Construction projects are subject to light industrial noise level limits.. Violations can be reported to code enforcement, which can issue stop-work orders for unpermitted or off-hours construction.
Are there rules about loud music in Arvada?
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Yes. Arvada's ordinance: Unlawful if plainly audible at property boundaries, through party walls/ceilings/floors, or plainly audible at 25 feet from a vehicle. Loudspeakers and sound amplifying equipment require a permit.. Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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