Gresham, OR Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Gresham, OR?

10 PM - 7 AM (general residential quiet hours), but some activities like construction are allowed 7 AM - 10 PM.

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

503-823-3333How to file a complaint →

Gresham, OR Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Gresham, OR?

Gresham, OR's Noise Control Code, Article 7.20 of the Gresham Revised Code, prohibits sounds "plainly audible" at specified distances during certain hours. General quiet hours are from 10 PM to 7 AM, with specific regulations for construction, amplified sound, and vehicle noise. Violations may lead to fines up to $1,000, and motor vehicle noise violations can incur fines up to $500 or jail time.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Gresham, OR
Zone TypeDayNight
ResidentialNot specified (based on 'plainly audible' standard)Not specified (based on 'plainly audible' standard)
CommercialNot specified (based on 'plainly audible' standard)Not specified (based on 'plainly audible' standard)

Note: The Gresham Noise Control Code primarily uses a 'plainly audible' standard at specified distances rather than explicit decibel limits for sound. For instance, sounds are prohibited if 'plainly audible' between 7 AM and 10 PM at 100 feet, or at 50 feet on a public right-of-way. Vibration limits in VdB are specified for different property categories.

Specific Restrictions

  • Construction:

    Sounds from industrial, agricultural, or construction activities are permitted between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Blasting activities require a permit and are restricted to 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays.

  • Amplified Sound:

    Plainly audible spoken speech, music, or mechanical/electronic noise is prohibited between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM if audible at 100 feet from the source, or at 50 feet on a public right-of-way.

  • Animals:

    Unattended barking dogs at rental properties are prohibited by City of Gresham Revised code. For barking dog complaints, residents are advised to contact Multnomah County Animal Control.

  • Vehicles:

    Motor vehicles must have a muffler in good working order. Operating a vehicle to cause tire squealing, except for emergency braking, is prohibited. Motor vehicle noise levels on public rights-of-way or public places must not exceed maximum permissible sound levels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gresham, OR Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Gresham, OR?

10 PM - 7 AM (general residential quiet hours), but some activities like construction are allowed 7 AM - 10 PM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Gresham, OR?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified (based on 'plainly audible' standard) during the day and Not specified (based on 'plainly audible' standard) at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.

Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Gresham, OR?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Gresham, OR police non-emergency line at 503-823-3333. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 503-618-2248.

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