What is the residential decibel limit in Wilmington, DE?

Daytime limit: 65 dB (7 AM - 11 PM). Nighttime limit: 55 dB (11 PM - 7 AM, extended until midnight on weekends). Downtown district limits are 75 dB during the day and 65 dB at night. A noise disturbance is presumed if plainly audible within any occupied structure not the source of sound, or within 66 feet from a commercial establishment's property line. Measurements for outdoor entertainment are taken 100 feet from the source and beyond the property line. Exceeding these values or the ambient noise level by 10 dBA constitutes a noise disturbance.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Wilmington, DE?

For non-emergencies, contact the police at (302) 654-5151. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at (302) 576-2620 (Wilmington 311).

Wilmington, DE Noise Ordinance

Quiet Hours: 11 PM - 7 AM (residential weekdays), 12 AM - 7 AM (residential weekends)

Residential Decibel Limit: 65 dB (7 AM - 11 PM) (Day) / 55 dB (11 PM - 7 AM, extended until midnight on weekends) (Night)

Summary: Wilmington, DE's noise ordinance, Chapter 11, Article III, prohibits noise disturbances, setting decibel limits for residential (65 dB day, 55 dB night), commercial (75 dB day, 70 dB night), and downtown (75 dB day, 65 dB night) areas. Quiet hours generally begin at 11 PM. Violations, enforceable by police, can result in fines up to $1,000, with provisions for targeting residential disturbances.

Local Noise Laws

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