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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Lakewood, CO
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Lakewood's ordinance primarily defines prohibited noise based on its 'unreasonable' nature or audibility at property lines rather than specific decibel levels."
AI Executive Summary
Lakewood, CO's noise control ordinance, Chapter 9.52, prohibits "unreasonable noise" and specific loud disturbances. General quiet hours restrict amplified sound, bells/chimes, and truck loading between 10 PM and 7 AM. Construction activities are generally limited to 6 AM to 9 PM, with power equipment restricted from 10 PM to 7 AM. Animal noise that unreasonably disturbs the peace is also prohibited.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Construction activities in residential or commercial districts are prohibited between 9 PM and 6 AM. The operation of power equipment for home or building repair, grounds maintenance, or construction is prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM. Remodeling or use of repair or maintenance power equipment on a residential property and roofing is allowed between 7 AM and 9 PM. Emergency work is excluded.
Amplified Sound
Using loudspeakers, public address systems, or other sound-amplifying equipment for transmitting music or sound is prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM if plainly audible at the property line. Between 7 AM and 10 PM, the intensity and loudness must not be unreasonable. Amplified sound from a motor vehicle is prohibited if plainly audible at 25 feet, unless a permit is issued.
Animals
No person shall permit any animal or bird to create frequent or habitual howling, barking, meowing, squawking, or other noise that unreasonably disturbs the peace and quiet of any neighborhood.
Vehicles
Operating vehicles out of repair or loaded in a manner that causes unreasonable noise is unlawful. Mufflers are required to be in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent unreasonable noise; modification to amplify noise is prohibited. Dynamic braking devices must be properly muffled. Truck loading in a residential district or within 300 feet of a hotel/motel/residential district is prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Lakewood protect residents from noise?
Qualitative standard
Extensive coverage
Standard fines
4 noise categories regulated
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Lakewood, CO?
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Lakewood's quiet hours: General quiet hours for many disturbances, including amplified sound, bells, chimes, and truck loading near residential areas, are between 10 PM and 7 AM. Construction activities are generally prohibited between 9 PM and 6 AM. The operation of power equipment for home repair, grounds maintenance, or construction is prohibited between 10 PM and 7 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.
How do I file a noise complaint in Lakewood?
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Call the Lakewood police non-emergency line at 303-980-7300. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at 303-987-7566. Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Lakewood?
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Lakewood's noise violation penalties: Violations of the municipal code, including provisions related to public health and safety, may result in a fine of no less than $25.00 and no more than $300.00. Each day a violation continues is considered a separate offense.. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Lakewood?
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Lakewood's rules: No person shall permit any animal or bird to create frequent or habitual howling, barking, meowing, squawking, or other noise that unreasonably disturbs the peace and quiet of any neighborhood.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at 303-987-7173 or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Lakewood?
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Lakewood's construction noise rules: Construction activities in residential or commercial districts are prohibited between 9 PM and 6 AM. The operation of power equipment for home or building repair, grounds maintenance, or construction is prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM. Remodeling or use of repair or maintenance power equipment on a residential property and roofing is allowed between 7 AM and 9 PM. Emergency work is excluded.. 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 Lakewood?
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Yes. Lakewood's ordinance: Using loudspeakers, public address systems, or other sound-amplifying equipment for transmitting music or sound is prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM if plainly audible at the property line. Between 7 AM and 10 PM, the intensity and loudness must not be unreasonable. Amplified sound from a motor vehicle is prohibited if plainly audible at 25 feet, unless a permit is issued.. Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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