Portland, OR
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Portland, OR.
Ordinance Summary
Portland, OR noise ordinances, primarily found in Title 18 of the City Code, prohibit noise disturbances and set quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM daily for sounds plainly audible in dwelling units. Decibel limits vary by zone (residential, commercial, industrial) at the property line, with specific restrictions for construction, amplified sound, and animal noise.
Quiet Hours
10 PM to 7 AM
Police Non-Emergency
503-823-3333Decibel Limits
"Decibel limits are measured at the property line. Impulse noise sources are limited to 100 dB during day hours and 80 dB during night hours."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Portland, OR code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction noise is prohibited before 7 AM and after 6 PM on all days, and all day on Sundays and six legal holidays. Noise exceeding 60 dBA at the lot line is also prohibited during permitted hours. Commercial construction equipment and commercial transport vehicles are exempt from the general 10 PM - 7 AM quiet hours if not plainly audible in a dwelling unit.
It is unlawful to cause or permit any noise disturbance. Sounds plainly audible in any dwelling unit between 10 PM and 7 AM are prohibited.
Repetitive barking, whining, screeching, howling, or braying that lasts for a minimum of ten continuous minutes or thirty intermittent minutes and is plainly audible beyond the owner's property, causing annoyance or disturbance, is prohibited.
The normal operation of vehicles designed and used for commercial transportation of passengers, and vehicles being loaded or unloaded, are exempt from the 10 PM - 7 AM quiet hours if not plainly audible in a dwelling unit. Motor vehicles are covered in rare cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10 PM to 7 AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 503-823-3333.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
Noise Solutions for Portland, OR
SolvedBest Gear for Portland, OR 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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