Santa Fe, NM
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Santa Fe, NM.
Ordinance Summary
Santa Fe, NM, enforces its noise ordinance, Chapter 10, Article 2 of the City Code, to maintain peace. It prohibits excessive noise, with quiet hours generally from 9 PM to 7 AM. Specific decibel limits apply to various sources, including construction equipment and vehicles. Violations can lead to fines starting at $200 for a first offense.
Quiet Hours
9:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Police Non-Emergency
505-428-3710Decibel Limits
"A noise disturbance is unlawful if it creates a tenth percentile sound pressure level (L10) greater than 15 dBA above the ambient sound pressure level (L90) for at least 10 minutes. Stationary sources are unlawful if they exceed 10 dBA greater than levels set for receiving zones. Construction equipment has a limit of 80 dBA at 25 feet in residential/commercial zones, and 88 dBA in other areas. Refuse compacting vehicles are limited to 79 dBA at 25 feet."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Santa Fe, NM code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction, repair, alteration, or demolition work is prohibited in residential and commercial zone areas between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Outdoor construction in industrial zoned areas is also prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Construction equipment must not exceed 80 dBA at 25 feet in residential/commercial zones, or 88 dBA in other areas.
Operating loudspeakers, public address systems, or similar devices in a manner that creates a noise disturbance between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if plainly audible at the property boundary of the source, or if it violates zone district noise levels.
Animal noise complaints are handled through the Santa Fe Police Department's non-emergency dispatch. [cite: 9 in previous search]
Unnecessary sounding of horns or signaling devices is prohibited. Operating any vehicle, by disrepair or manner of operation, that causes a noise disturbance or violates zone district noise levels is prohibited. Muffler cutouts, bypasses, straight-through mufflers without baffles (e.g., glass packs, steel packs, straight pipes), or similar devices are prohibited. Factory-installed exhaust options are prohibited if the noise emitted exceeds decibel levels described in Section 10.2-9. Stationary motor vehicles or auxiliary equipment causing a noise disturbance in a residential zone for longer than 10 minutes are prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
9:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 505-428-3710.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Santa Fe, NM
SolvedBest Gear for Santa Fe, NM 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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