The Resolution Path
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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Columbia, MO
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"The ordinance primarily uses 'plainly audible' distances for amplified sound and generally prohibits noises that disturb the peace, quiet, or comfort, rather than specific decibel limits."
AI Executive Summary
Columbia, MO, noise ordinances prohibit loud, unnecessary, or unusual noises that disturb comfort, peace, or safety. Specific rules apply to amplified sound, with varying audible distance limits in the downtown area, and restrictions on shouting, singing, and verbal utterances between 11 PM and 7 AM. Construction noise from heavy machinery is restricted from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Operation of pile drivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, steam or electric hoists, or other appliances creating loud or unusual noise is unlawful between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Amplified Sound
In the downtown area, amplified sound is unlawful if plainly audible at 300 feet (Sunday-Wednesday 7 AM-10 PM, Thursday-Saturday 7 AM-11 PM), 150 feet (Sunday-Wednesday 10 PM-1:30 AM, Thursday-Saturday 11 PM-1:30 AM), and 50 feet (every day 1:30 AM-7 AM). Outside downtown, it is unlawful if it disturbs the peace, quiet, or comfort. Commercial advertising using sound amplifying equipment on public streets, alleys, squares, or over the city is prohibited.
Animals
The keeping of any animal or bird that, by causing frequent or long-continued noise, disturbs the comfort or repose of persons in the vicinity is unlawful. This includes provisions related to barking or annoying dogs.
Vehicles
Unnecessary or harsh sounding of horns/signaling devices, or for an unreasonable period, is unlawful. Using exhaust-operated signaling devices is also unlawful. Vehicles out of repair or loaded in a manner that creates loud and unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling, or other noise are prohibited. Creating loud and excessive noise during loading or unloading of vehicles, or the opening/destruction of bales, boxes, crates, and containers, is unlawful.
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