Erie, PA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Erie, PA.
Ordinance Summary
Erie, PA noise ordinances primarily prohibit disturbing the peace by "clamor or noise" as part of the Disorderly Conduct (City Ordinance § 705.01), which includes shouting or making noise during nighttime to the annoyance of residents. Specific quiet hours are not universally defined for all noise sources, but rather focus on nuisance. The City also has specific restrictions for animal noise, amplified sound, and established quiet zones around hospitals.
Quiet Hours
Not universally specified for all noise sources; generally, nighttime noise that disturbs peace is prohibited under disorderly conduct.
Police Non-Emergency
(814) 870-1125Decibel Limits
"The Zoning Ordinance for Light Industrial Park districts prohibits sustained noise levels of 60 dBA or greater, or unsustained non-periodic noise levels of 80 dBA or greater, as measured at any property line and residential district line. No general decibel limits are specified for residential or commercial areas."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Erie, PA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Not explicitly specified in the provided ordinances for general construction hours. Activities causing noise disturbance may fall under general disorderly conduct provisions.
Operating or playing any radio, television, musical instrument, sound amplifier, automobile radio/stereo, or similar device is prohibited if it creates a noise disturbance across a real property boundary at any time, or is audible from 50 feet in any public area, street, or sidewalk.
No person shall own, harbor, or keep any animal that disturbs the peace, quiet, rest, or sleep of any person by making continuous noise for more than 15 minutes on two or more consecutive days or nights (City of Erie, Chapter 729).
Operating recreational motor vehicles in a manner that creates loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise disturbing others is prohibited. In established Quiet Zones (one-block radius around hospitals), blowing vehicle horns or creating other motor vehicle nuisances that disturb patients and staff are prohibited. Operating sound amplifying equipment in or on a motor vehicle on a public right-of-way or public space creating a noise disturbance across any real property boundary is also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
Not universally specified for all noise sources; generally, nighttime noise that disturbs peace is prohibited under disorderly conduct..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: (814) 870-1125.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Erie, PA
SolvedBest Gear for Erie, PA 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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