The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
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3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3South Bend, IN
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Decibel limits for stationary noises are measured at the property boundary and are equivalent to broadband sound levels. Light motor vehicles are limited to 80 dB(A) at not less than 15 feet."
AI Executive Summary
South Bend, IN's noise ordinance, primarily found in Chapter 13, Article 7 ("Noise Control") and Section 13-57 ("Unreasonable noise"), prohibits sounds disturbing the peace, health, or welfare of residents. It establishes specific decibel limits for residential and commercial areas, along with quiet hours, and outlines restrictions for various noise sources like amplified sound, animals, vehicles, and construction activities.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
General construction and demolition are prohibited between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. unless a permit is granted. The operation of pile drivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, steam or electric hoists, or similar appliances is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Amplified Sound
Operating or permitting the use of radios, television sets, musical instruments, tape or record players, amplifiers, and similar devices in a manner that exceeds specified sound limits (Sec. 13-82) or unreasonably disturbs the peace. Plainly audible sound at 50 feet that unreasonably disturbs neighbors is prohibited. Operation between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. is prima facie evidence of a violation. Use for commercial advertising on public streets is also prohibited.
Animals
The harboring or keeping of any animal or fowl that causes frequent or long-continued noise which disturbs or annoys the quiet, comfort, or repose of persons.
Vehicles
Light motor vehicles exceeding 80 dB(A) are unlawful. Operating any vehicle so out of repair, so loaded, or in such a manner as to create loud and unnecessary engine noise, grating, grinding, rattling, or other noise exceeding state standards is prohibited. Excessive noise from squealing tires and discharging exhaust without a muffler are also prohibited. Sounding a horn except as a danger warning, or for an unreasonable period or with unreasonable loudness, is forbidden.
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