Lancaster, PA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Lancaster, PA.
Ordinance Summary
Lancaster, PA's Noise Control Ordinance, Section 198 of the City Code, prohibits any noise disturbance that injures the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of residents. Generally, quiet hours for many activities requiring a variance are 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekdays and all day on weekends. Construction and amplified sound have specific restricted hours.
Quiet Hours
9:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekdays, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays for general noise disturbances requiring a variance.
Police Non-Emergency
717-664-1180Decibel Limits
"The ordinance primarily prohibits 'noise disturbance' without specific decibel levels for general residential or commercial areas. Motor vehicle noise levels are governed by Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Regulations Title 67, Chapter 157, Subchapter B, 67 Pa. Code § 157.11."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Lancaster, PA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Operating tools or equipment for construction, drilling, or demolition is prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM the following day on weekdays and Saturdays, or at any time on Sundays or legal holidays, if it creates a noise disturbance across a residential property line, except for emergency work. Domestic power tools are exempt from these hours. A variance is needed for construction noise between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM on weekdays and anytime on weekends, but no variance will be issued for noise after 10:00 PM.
A variance is always required for any amplified musical instruments, music, or voice in a public space. For noise disturbances at a private residence, business, or car, a variance is needed for amplified sound between 9:00 PM and 8:00 AM on weekdays and anytime on the weekends. Noise variance requests for bands or amplified music at private house parties or bars/nightclubs will NOT be approved. Street sales by shouting or outcry or amplified sound are only permitted between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM.
For a persistent nuisance barking dog or a vicious dog, residents should call the police non-emergency number (717-664-1180).
No person shall operate a motor vehicle or motorcycle on a public right-of-way in a manner that violates Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Regulations. Motorcycles must have a working muffler and no altered exhaust systems that amplify sound beyond established levels. Operating a standing motor vehicle or auxiliary equipment for longer than 15 minutes in any hour, if stationary (not due to traffic) within 150 feet of a residence and causing a noise disturbance across a residential property line, is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
9:00 PM to 8:00 AM on weekdays, and all day on Saturdays and Sundays for general noise disturbances requiring a variance..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 717-664-1180.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Lancaster, PA
SolvedBest Gear for Lancaster, 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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