Philadelphia, PA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Philadelphia, PA?
| Regulation | Details for Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-8AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 911 (for residential noise complaints) |
General loud noise restrictions are typically from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Construction noise affecting residences is restricted from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM on weekdays and 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekends.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Philadelphia, PA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Philadelphia, PA?
Philadelphia, PA noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 10-400 of The Philadelphia Code, prohibit excessive noise and vibration. General loud noise restrictions are typically from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Key provisions include decibel limits above background levels for residential and commercial properties, specific construction hours, and restrictions on amplified sound, animal noise, and vehicle sound.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 3 dB above background level measured beyond the property boundary | 3 dB above background level measured beyond the property boundary |
| Commercial | 5 dB above background level at nearest occupied residential property; 10 dB above background level at nearest occupied non-residential property | 5 dB above background level at nearest occupied residential property; 10 dB above background level at nearest occupied non-residential property |
Note: Sound originating from concert venues or stadia must not exceed 70 decibels at the boundary of the nearest occupied residential property. Amplified sound should not exceed 65 decibels beyond the property line.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Regular construction is permitted between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM Monday through Friday, and between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM on weekends and legal holidays. Construction noise affecting residences should not exceed five decibels above the background sound level from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM on weekdays, and 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekends. Exceptions exist for emergencies or public works.
- Amplified Sound:
Sound amplification systems or devices must not create a sound level greater than 65 decibels (dB) at any point beyond the property line. Radios, tape players, or similar amplified devices are prohibited on public transportation unless earphones are used to prevent sound from emanating beyond the user.
- Animals:
No person shall cause or permit more than 5 expressions of sound (e.g., individual barks from one or more dogs) during a five-minute period from any property, audible at a distance greater than 50 feet from the property boundary. Animals causing unreasonable annoyance or discomfort to persons within 500 feet of the owner are also prohibited.
- Vehicles:
Sound emanating from a motor vehicle, including amplified sound, shall not exceed 5 decibels above the background level measured from a distance of 25 or more feet. Loud noise plainly audible at a distance greater than 100 feet from a motor vehicle is also prohibited. Automated vehicle noise enforcement systems are being implemented.
Frequently Asked Questions about Philadelphia, PA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Philadelphia, PA?
General loud noise restrictions are typically from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Construction noise affecting residences is restricted from 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM on weekdays and 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekends.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Philadelphia, PA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 3 dB above background level measured beyond the property boundary during the day and 3 dB above background level measured beyond the property boundary 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 Philadelphia, PA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Philadelphia, PA police non-emergency line at 911 (for residential noise complaints). For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (215) 685-7580 (Air Management Services for commercial/industrial noise).