Wilmington, DE
Noise Code

Operating equipment for construction, drilling, or demolition work is generally prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM on weekdays and Saturdays, and at any time on Sundays or holidays, if it creates a noise disturbance in a residential area. Lawn maintenance equipment is restricted between 9 PM and 7 AM.

Operating radios, televisions, musical instruments, sound amplifiers, or similar devices in a manner that creates a noise disturbance within a receiving property, is plainly audible across real property boundaries or through common partitions, or plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet from a motor vehicle, is prohibited. More permits are required for outdoor events with amplified music if noise levels exceed maximum limits. Selling perishable goods from a motor vehicle with amplified sound is restricted between 9 PM and 7 AM (June 1-August 31) and between 8 PM and 7 AM (September 1-May 31).

Owning, possessing, harboring, or controlling any animal or bird that barks, bays, cries, or squawks continuously for 10 minutes or intermittently for 30 minutes or more, thereby causing a noise disturbance within a receiving property, is unlawful, unless the animal was provoked by trespassing.

The use of motor vehicle horns and warning devices is limited to emergency situations. Repairing, rebuilding, testing, or racing the motor of any motor vehicle in a residential district between 9 PM and 8 AM is prohibited if it creates a noise disturbance. All vehicles must comply with applicable state regulations. Operating noise-producing devices on public transit vehicles without earplugs or earphones is prohibited.