The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Indianapolis, IN
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Motor vehicles over 35 mph are limited to 86 dB(A), and under 35 mph to 82 dB(A). Vendor vehicles with sound equipment must not exceed 115 decibels at six inches from the speaker."
AI Executive Summary
Indianapolis, IN noise ordinances, primarily found in Article III, Chapter 391 of the city's Code of Ordinances, prohibit "unreasonable noise" that disrupts the health, safety, welfare, prosperity, comfort, or repose of residents. Specific restrictions apply to activities like construction, amplified sound, animal vocalizations, and vehicle operation, particularly during designated quiet hours.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
The erection, demolition, alteration, or repair of any building, or excavation, is prohibited between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., except in cases of urgent necessity with a permit. One source also mentions a general prohibition outside of 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Amplified Sound
Playing any radio, television, loudspeaker, sound amplifier, musical instrument, or similar device in a manner that creates unreasonable noise is prohibited. Operation producing sound plainly audible outside the property between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. is prima facie evidence of a violation. Amplified sound from vendor vehicles is restricted between 10:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. and cannot exceed 115 decibels at six inches from the speaker. Noncommercial aircraft with sound-amplifying equipment are permitted only between 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Animals
It is unlawful to own or keep any animal which, by frequent or habitual howling, yelping, barking, screeching, or other vocalization, causes serious annoyance or disturbance to persons in the vicinity (Sec 531-204).
Vehicles
The sounding of any horn or signaling device in a manner that makes unreasonable noise is prohibited. Vehicles must be equipped with a muffler or other noise-reducing device that complies with standards. Operation of engines without a compliant muffler between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. that is plainly audible outside the property is prohibited. Decibel limits for motor vehicles are 86 dB(A) for speeds over 35 mph and 82 dB(A) for speeds under 35 mph.
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