Erie, PA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Erie, PA?
| Regulation | Details for Erie, PA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | Not specified |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (814) 870-1125 |
Not universally specified for all noise sources; generally, nighttime noise that disturbs peace is prohibited under disorderly conduct.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Erie, PA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Erie, PA?
Erie, PA noise ordinances primarily prohibit disturbing the peace by "clamor or noise" as part of the Disorderly Conduct (City Ordinance § 705.01), which includes shouting or making noise during nighttime to the annoyance of residents. Specific quiet hours are not universally defined for all noise sources, but rather focus on nuisance. The City also has specific restrictions for animal noise, amplified sound, and established quiet zones around hospitals.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: The Zoning Ordinance for Light Industrial Park districts prohibits sustained noise levels of 60 dBA or greater, or unsustained non-periodic noise levels of 80 dBA or greater, as measured at any property line and residential district line. No general decibel limits are specified for residential or commercial areas.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Not explicitly specified in the provided ordinances for general construction hours. Activities causing noise disturbance may fall under general disorderly conduct provisions.
- Amplified Sound:
Operating or playing any radio, television, musical instrument, sound amplifier, automobile radio/stereo, or similar device is prohibited if it creates a noise disturbance across a real property boundary at any time, or is audible from 50 feet in any public area, street, or sidewalk.
- Animals:
No person shall own, harbor, or keep any animal that disturbs the peace, quiet, rest, or sleep of any person by making continuous noise for more than 15 minutes on two or more consecutive days or nights (City of Erie, Chapter 729).
- Vehicles:
Operating recreational motor vehicles in a manner that creates loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise disturbing others is prohibited. In established Quiet Zones (one-block radius around hospitals), blowing vehicle horns or creating other motor vehicle nuisances that disturb patients and staff are prohibited. Operating sound amplifying equipment in or on a motor vehicle on a public right-of-way or public space creating a noise disturbance across any real property boundary is also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Erie, PA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Erie, PA?
Not universally specified for all noise sources; generally, nighttime noise that disturbs peace is prohibited under disorderly conduct.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Erie, PA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of established limits during the day and stricter limits 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 Erie, PA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Erie, PA police non-emergency line at (814) 870-1125. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (814) 870-1473.