The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
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3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Saint Paul, MN
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Decibel limits are L10, averaged over one hour. Other areas like industrial districts may have limits up to 70-80 dBA."
AI Executive Summary
Saint Paul, MN noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 293 of the Legislative Code, prohibit loud, disturbing, or excessive noise that causes significant discomfort or annoyance to a reasonable person. Residential decibel limits are 65 dBA during the day (7 AM - 10 PM) and 55 dBA at night (10 PM - 7 AM). Specific restrictions apply to construction, amplified sound, barking dogs, and vehicle noise.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Loud construction/demolition machinery is generally restricted between 10 PM and 7 AM. Construction or demolition equipment must not exceed 85 dBA at a distance of 50 feet from the source. Domestic power tools are also prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM if they unreasonably disturb the peace.
Amplified Sound
Amplified sound without a permit must comply with general noise limits. With an Amplified Sound Permit, events can occur from 7 AM - 10 PM (Sunday-Thursday) and 7 AM - 11 PM (Friday-Saturday), not exceeding 80 dBA in residential areas and 90 dBA in non-residential areas, measured at 50 feet from the source.
Animals
It is unlawful for any person to own or harbor a dog that howls, yelps, or barks to the reasonable annoyance of another person (City Ordinance Section 200.14).
Vehicles
Operating motor vehicles in violation of Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Rules (Sections 7010.1000-7010.1600 or 7030.1000-7030.1600) is prohibited. This includes noisy mufflers, lack of an effective exhaust system, and car stereos audible at 50 feet or more. Unnecessary horn honking is also restricted.
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