Lancaster, PA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Lancaster, PA?
| Regulation | Details for Lancaster, PA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-8AM weekdays, all day weekends |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 717-664-1180 |
9:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekdays, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays for general noise disturbances requiring a variance.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Lancaster, PA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Lancaster, PA?
Lancaster, PA's Noise Control Ordinance, Section 198 of the City Code, prohibits any noise disturbance that injures the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of residents. Generally, quiet hours for many activities requiring a variance are 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekdays and all day on weekends. Construction and amplified sound have specific restricted hours.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: The ordinance primarily prohibits 'noise disturbance' without specific decibel levels for general residential or commercial areas. Motor vehicle noise levels are governed by Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Regulations Title 67, Chapter 157, Subchapter B, 67 Pa. Code § 157.11.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operating tools or equipment for construction, drilling, or demolition is prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM the following day on weekdays and Saturdays, or at any time on Sundays or legal holidays, if it creates a noise disturbance across a residential property line, except for emergency work. Domestic power tools are exempt from these hours. A variance is needed for construction noise between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM on weekdays and anytime on weekends, but no variance will be issued for noise after 10:00 PM.
- Amplified Sound:
A variance is always required for any amplified musical instruments, music, or voice in a public space. For noise disturbances at a private residence, business, or car, a variance is needed for amplified sound between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM on weekdays and anytime on the weekends. Noise variance requests for bands or amplified music at private house parties or bars/nightclubs will NOT be approved. Street sales by shouting or outcry or amplified sound are only permitted between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM.
- Animals:
For a persistent nuisance barking dog or a vicious dog, residents should call the police non-emergency number (717-664-1180).
- Vehicles:
No person shall operate a motor vehicle or motorcycle on a public right-of-way in a manner that violates Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Regulations. Motorcycles must have a working muffler and no altered exhaust systems that amplify sound beyond established levels. Operating a standing motor vehicle or auxiliary equipment for longer than 15 minutes in any hour, if stationary (not due to traffic) within 150 feet of a residence and causing a noise disturbance across a residential property line, is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lancaster, PA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Lancaster, PA?
9:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekdays, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays for general noise disturbances requiring a variance.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Lancaster, 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 Lancaster, PA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Lancaster, PA police non-emergency line at 717-664-1180. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 717-291-4736 (Zoning Officer for noise variances).