The Resolution Path
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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Lewiston, ME
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Lewiston's Zoning and Land Use Code (Appendix A, Article XII, Section 19(2)) specifies maximum sound levels for non-residential uses when adjacent to other districts: 50 dB(A) for residential districts and OR NB, and 60 dB(A) for business districts including IO, OS, and UE. These are impact limits, not direct emission limits for residential or commercial properties themselves."
AI Executive Summary
Lewiston, ME's noise ordinance, Chapter 50, Section 50-13, prohibits excessive, unnecessary, or unusually loud noise that disturbs the peace. Key restrictions include banning loud shouting/singing on public streets between 11 PM and 7 AM, and amplified sound that annoys residents. Animal noises causing frequent or prolonged disturbance are also unlawful. Penalties escalate for repeat offenses.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Not explicitly specified in the noise ordinance. Exemptions exist for necessary excavation or repairs of bridges, streets, or highways, or utility installations by or on behalf of the City, State, or public utility.
Amplified Sound
The playing of any radio, phonograph, television, amplified or musical instruments, loudspeakers, tape recorder, or other electronic sound-producing devices in a manner or volume that annoys or disturbs persons in any dwelling, hotel, hospital, residence, office, or vicinity is prohibited. Reasonable use of amplifiers or loudspeakers for public addresses is permitted if a city permit has been granted.
Animals
The keeping of any animal or bird that, by causing frequent or long continued noise, disturbs the reasonable comfort or repose of any person is unlawful. An animal causing a disturbance by excessive barking or noise-making near a private residence or business is considered a public nuisance. It is unlawful to keep more than four dogs over four months old on any one premises.
Vehicles
No person shall operate any noise-creating device on a public right-of-way in a manner that draws public attention to the noise source. This includes discharging fireworks, firing starter pistols, sounding horns for extended periods, rapid throttle advance/acceleration/revving (e.g., motorcycle 'blipping'), and operating unmuffled or non-compliant exhaust systems. Maine state law prohibits operating a vehicle sound system audible over 25 feet and exceeding 85 decibels, or at an unreasonable volume.
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