The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Rehoboth Beach, DE
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Residential noise is determined by a "plainly audible standard" from 11 PM to 8 AM. For commercial zoning districts, a decibel meter is used, but specific general limits are not provided in the snippets. Construction noise cannot exceed 94 dBA. Small power equipment, including landscaping tools, shall not exceed 74 dBA and can only be operated between 8 AM and 8 PM."
AI Executive Summary
Rehoboth Beach, DE's "Noise Control Ordinance" prohibits loud, excessive, or unnecessary noise disturbing reasonable persons. Residential areas use a "plainly audible standard," while commercial areas and construction have decibel limits. Quiet hours generally run from 11 PM to 8 AM, with specific restrictions for construction and amplified sound. Violations incur civil assessments.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Construction is generally prohibited between 5 PM and 8 AM the following morning on weekdays. It is not permitted on Sundays or on New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Construction is allowed on Saturdays from 9 AM to 5 PM only between November 1 and April 30. Noise levels from construction sites shall not exceed 94 dBA.
Amplified Sound
Sound trucks are prohibited. Operating sound-amplifying equipment requires a permit from the City Manager and must not unreasonably disturb the peace. Outdoor use of musical instruments or sound-producing devices in residential districts is prohibited after 11 PM or before 8 AM.
Animals
No person shall keep any animal that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the comfort or repose of any person in the vicinity; this is considered a civil offense. Dogs are prohibited from the beach and boardwalk from May 1 through September 30. A leash law and 'pooper scooper' law are enforced.
Vehicles
No person operating a motor vehicle, vehicle, or bicycle shall play any radio, stereo system, or musical device at a volume that annoys or disturbs a reasonable person of normal sensitivities.
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