The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Philadelphia, PA
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"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."
AI Executive Summary
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.
Specific Noise 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.
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