Pittsburgh, PA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Pittsburgh, PA.
Ordinance Summary
Pittsburgh, PA noise ordinances (specifically Pittsburgh Code, Title Six, Chapter 601.04, "Noise Control") prohibit unamplified noise in residential areas exceeding 65 dB(A) during the day (7 AM-10 PM) and 55 dB(A) at night (10 PM-7 AM), or 3 dB above background levels, whichever is greater. Amplified noise must be below 75 dB and not plainly audible from 75 feet. Construction hours are also regulated.
Quiet Hours
10 PM-7 AM
Decibel Limits
"Amplified noise must be kept below 75 dB. Noise plainly audible to an officer from 75 feet away is a violation. Apartment-to-apartment/residence-to-residence noise is limited to 3 dB above background sound level or if clearly audible from 75 feet."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Pittsburgh, PA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Private development activity in Downtown and the Strip District is limited to 6 AM to 8 PM. Heavy construction, including demolition and jackhammering, is restricted to 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Saturday. Construction activities subject to Residential Compatibility Standards are prohibited between 10 PM and 6 AM unless within a fully enclosed structure. Work on City streets requires prior permission before 7 AM or after 7 PM. Properly permitted construction is generally exempt.
Amplified noise from a vehicle or portable, hand-carried audio amplification device is prohibited if plainly audible to an officer from 75 feet away. Overall amplified noise must be kept below 75 dB.
Barking dogs can be a source of noise complaints and are considered individual background noise sources. Animal Control assists with neighbor disputes over animals.
Unnecessarily and repeatedly sounding a vehicle horn is prohibited. Music or audio amplification from a vehicle plainly audible from 75 feet away is a violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10 PM-7 AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 412-473-3056 (Allegheny County Dispatch non-emergency) or 311 (City of Pittsburgh Response Center) / 412-255-2621 (outside Pittsburgh).
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Pittsburgh, PA
SolvedBest Gear for Pittsburgh, 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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