Bethlehem, PA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Bethlehem, PA?
| Regulation | Details for Bethlehem, PA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 610-865-7000 (Bethlehem Service Center), 610-865-7187 (Northampton County 911 Center) |
10 PM to 7 AM (for peddlers; construction has different hours)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Bethlehem, PA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Bethlehem, PA?
Bethlehem, PA noise ordinances, specifically Article 717 of the Codified Ordinances, declare unnecessary noise a public nuisance. Key restrictions prohibit construction between 9 PM and 6 AM, and amplified sound must not be audible beyond 40 feet from the source. Violations carry fines starting at $50, increasing for repeat offenses, and potential imprisonment for third and subsequent violations.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified in dB, but sound reproduction devices not audible beyond 40 feet. | Not specified in dB, but sound reproduction devices not audible beyond 40 feet. |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: Sound reproduction devices are prohibited if audible at a distance greater than forty (40) feet from the device in any area within the City. Motor vehicle sound levels must adhere to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Regulations Title 67, Chapter 157.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operating tools or equipment for construction, drilling, or demolition work is prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., unless a special permit is obtained from the Community and Economic Development Director.
- Amplified Sound:
No person shall operate a radio, stereo, boom box, tape/CD player, or other sound reproduction device at a sound level audible at a distance greater than forty (40) feet. Exceptions include police, fire, ambulance vehicles, municipal/utility services, places of religious worship, and officially licensed/permitted events.
- Animals:
No person or animal shall create any sound or noise that endangers or injures the safety or health of another person or animal, annoys or disturbs a reasonable person of normal sensitivities, or injures property.
- Vehicles:
Sounding a horn or warning device is only permitted when absolutely necessary as a warning while driving. Causing more than one false alarm from a motor vehicle alarm within a twenty-four (24) hour period is prohibited. Operating motor vehicles or equipment attached thereto on public rights-of-way in a manner that exceeds Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Regulations Title 67, Chapter 157, Subchapter B is prohibited. Repairing, rebuilding, or testing any motor vehicle, motorcycle, or aircraft that causes a noise disturbance across a residential real property boundary is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bethlehem, PA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Bethlehem, PA?
10 PM to 7 AM (for peddlers; construction has different hours). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Bethlehem, PA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified in dB, but sound reproduction devices not audible beyond 40 feet. during the day and Not specified in dB, but sound reproduction devices not audible beyond 40 feet. 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 Bethlehem, PA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Bethlehem, PA police non-emergency line at 610-865-7000 (Bethlehem Service Center), 610-865-7187 (Northampton County 911 Center). For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 610-865-7091 (City of Bethlehem Building Code Enforcement Office).