State College, PA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in State College, PA?
| Regulation | Details for State College, PA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | Weekdays/Saturdays: 7PM-7AM; Saturday evening to Sunday morning: 7PM Sat - 9AM Sun |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 814-234-7150 |
General noise disturbances are prohibited weekdays and Saturdays between 7:00 PM and 7:00 AM the following day. On Saturday evenings, quiet hours extend from 7:00 PM until 9:00 AM on Sunday. Power equipment and loading operations in residential districts have slightly different quiet hours.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
State College, PA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in State College, PA?
State College, PA noise ordinances, specifically the Borough's Noise Control Ordinance (Chapter V, Part A), prohibit unreasonable noise that creates a disturbance, particularly during designated quiet hours. The regulations aim to minimize noise pollution and ensure community well-being. Violations are strictly enforced and can lead to significant fines, starting at a minimum of $750.00 plus court costs.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: The Borough ordinance indicates specific decibel measurements guide noise levels, but the exact limits are not explicitly stated in the provided public information for the Borough of State College.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operating power saws, sanders, drills, grinders, garden equipment, or similar tools outdoors is prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM on weekdays and Saturdays, and between 9:00 PM Saturday and 9:00 AM Sunday, if it creates a noise disturbance. General construction hours often align with typical daytime periods, with waivers sometimes granted for extended hours.
- Amplified Sound:
The continuous or repeated use of drums, loudspeakers, amplifiers, or similar devices to attract attention is prohibited if it disturbs the peace, comfort, or repose of others and is plainly audible within a dwelling, hotel, hospital, office, or other residence not originating the sound.
- Animals:
Keeping any animal or bird that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the peace, comfort, or repose of any person is prohibited, excluding dogs regulated under other Borough codification.
- Vehicles:
Loading, unloading, opening, or handling boxes, crates, or similar objects in residential districts is prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM the following day if it creates a noise disturbance, except in emergencies.
- Other:
The use or firing of explosives, firearms, fireworks, or similar devices that create a noise disturbance is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about State College, PA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in State College, PA?
General noise disturbances are prohibited weekdays and Saturdays between 7:00 PM and 7:00 AM the following day. On Saturday evenings, quiet hours extend from 7:00 PM until 9:00 AM on Sunday. Power equipment and loading operations in residential districts have slightly different quiet hours.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in State College, 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 State College, PA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the State College, PA police non-emergency line at 814-234-7150. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 814-234-7191.