Denver, CO
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Denver, CO.
Ordinance Summary
Denver, CO noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 36 of the Denver Revised Municipal Code, prohibit excessive noise to preserve public peace and welfare. It establishes specific decibel limits for residential and commercial areas, differentiating between day and night. The ordinance addresses construction, amplified sound, and vehicle noise, with violations potentially resulting in fines up to $5,000 per day.
Quiet Hours
10 PM - 7 AM (residential)
Police Non-Emergency
311 (Enforces Chapter 38 for disturbance of peace/prohibited noises)Decibel Limits
"Limits apply to noise crossing property lines. Exempted special events on public property may reach 85 dB(A) between 8 AM and 10 PM at the nearest residential properties. Colorado state law aligns with these limits."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Denver, CO code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Plainly audible construction noise is prohibited between 9 PM and 7 AM on weekdays, and between 5 PM and 8 AM on weekends. Setup and teardown noise for events is exempt Monday-Friday 7 AM - 9 PM and Saturday/Sunday 8 AM - 5 PM.
No amplification, including music and PA systems, before 8 AM and after 10 PM for events. Permitted events on public property can reach 85 dB(A) at the nearest residential properties from 8 AM to 10 PM, then 50 dB(A) from 10 PM to 7 AM, and 55 dB(A) from 7 AM to 8 AM. Events on private property with a permit can emit up to 85 dB(A) for up to eight days annually, with no more than four consecutive days per event and a mandatory 30-day interval between events lasting two or more days.
Noise associated with animals, such as barking dogs, is covered under Chapter 8 of the Denver Revised Municipal Code and is enforced by Denver Animal Protection.
Horns are only to be sounded as a warning to prevent accidents or inform of a vehicle's presence. The use of compression engine brakes within city limits is prohibited. Deliveries are generally prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM if they exceed sound pressure limits, excluding construction site deliveries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10 PM - 7 AM (residential).
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 311 (Enforces Chapter 38 for disturbance of peace/prohibited noises).
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Denver, CO
SolvedBest Gear for Denver, CO Residents
Ultrasonic Bark Control
Humane deterrent that emits a high-frequency sound when it detects barking.
Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
The "gold standard" for sleeping. Reduces noise by 24dB without the pain of foam plugs.
1/2" Thick Rug Pad
Essential for the "80% Rule." Adds density to rugs to absorb footfall impact noise for downstairs neighbors.
Hemp Calming Chews
Natural relief for dog anxiety. Perfect for separation anxiety barking or fear of fireworks.
ThunderShirt for Dogs
The best solution for anxiety-induced barking (fireworks, thunder, separation).
Marpac Dohm Classic
The original fan-based machine. Unlike digital loops, this creates real rushing air sound.
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