Lawn mower noise restrictions. City of Alexandria, VA

The Best Times to Mow Your Lawn | Climate, Noise Restrictions Neighbours

Mowing the lawn to maintain that perfect finish is a weekly ritual for many home owners in Australia during the peak growing season. But when actually is the best time to mow your lawn? What are the noise restrictions? And how do you avoid disturbing your neighbours?

Whether you’re getting the yard ready for a weekend BBQ, looking to improve your lawn health, or simply want the best lawn on the block- knowing how and when to cut the grass is the first step toward a happy lawn and neighbours.

To help provide some insights into lawn care best practices, we spoke to Rob Kerslake from Verduous Gardens for his thoughts on garden etiquette and schedules.

The best weather for mowing the lawn

When it comes to the best weather for mowing the lawn, you ideally want to do it when the grass is nice and dry. mainly as the blades will cut more cleanly, and you’re less likely to compact the soil.

This means trying to avoid mowing first thing in the morning or late in the day.

You’ll also want to avoid mowing during the middle of the day as the midday sun already places enough stress on the grass.

The ideal time is either mid-morning or mid-afternoon. If you need to water the lawn after giving it a cut, wait until the sun starts to set to minimise evaporation.

Rob mentioned that the time of year you mow your lawn also makes a big difference.

In late autumn and winter, the grass is growing more slowly, so you can get away with mowing every two to three weeks.

Also, any mowing you do during autumn and winter should be lighter. So bump the cutting height up a bit to avoid putting your lawn under too much pressure. You might think doing a hard cut during the colder months will give you another week of not mowing, but weeds can begin to take hold if the grass is too short.

Ideally, you want to mow your lawn so that the height of the cut is around two-thirds of the length of the grass blade… If it’s too short, you’re stressing the plant, and if it’s too long, you’re not getting a clean-cut and leaving a lot of leaf on.”

How often to mow the lawn?

The amount you’ll need to mow the lawn will largely depend on the type of grass, season and climate. When it comes to grass type, Rob says that fast growing lawns such as Kikuya, should be mowed every four to five days in summer” but even if you have a slow growing lawn like Couch it should still be mowed regularly in the warmer months to keep it looking lush and healthy.

Obviously, the climate around the country varies throughout the year, so there’s no one size fits all lawn mowing schedule to follow. However, the following grass types and cutting frequencies can give you a nudge in the right direction as a general guide.

Mowing Schedule by Grass Type and Season

Lawn mowing time restrictions in Australia

When it comes to lawn mowing, grass trimming and using powered garden tools outdoors, each state has its own legislation that determines when and when not to do it. For example, in NSW, using a lawn mower after 8 pm or before 7 am on a weekday could land you in trouble with your neighbours and the local council.

To help you understand when you can and cannot start up the grass trimmer, fire up the lawn mower or crank the leaf blower, here are the residential noise restrictions for power tools and equipment by state.

Residential Noise Restrictions For Power Tools and Equipment (Updated May 2022)

Battery mower benefits

If you’re worried about disturbing your neighbours, Rob recommends using a battery-powered lawn mower.

They’re much quieter than petrol-powered lawn mowers. And if you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly option, battery-powered mowers don’t produce any direct exhaust emissions.

A great example from the battery range is the Husqvarna LC 142i. It is a compact, light-weight lawn mower that is very easy to use and ideal for small to medium-sized lawns or for trimming smaller complex areas.

But if whisper-quiet mowing is what you’re after, Automower® is unparalleled when it comes to noise levels and efficiency. With a perceived sound level of just 59 dB(A), Automower® 305 will maintain lawn areas up to 600m2 without disturbing your neighbours. If you’re in need of a robot mower that can cover larger lawns up to 5000 m2, the pro-grade Automower® 450X also measures in at just 59 dB(A).

How many decibels are too many depends on the state regulations, proximity to neighbours and the time of day. To avoid any potential fines or fallouts, try to familiarise yourself with the chart above and be sure to regularly check the official government website for any changes or updates.

You know the rules, now find your tools

Knowing the rules and regulations, including lawn mowing times and when not to power up your mower is just half the battle when it comes to finding that perfect balance between a healthy lawn and happy neighbours.

If remembering time restrictions, mowing schedules and weather patterns seems like too much hassle, then Automower® is exactly what you’re after. Running to pre-set schedules with whisper-quiet operation, Smart home integration and useful settings such as weather timers and inbuilt safety features; enjoy a perfect lawn 24/7, 365.

City of Alexandria, VA

Make the most of Alexandria’s outstanding quality of life with information and services of interest to residents.

Are you ready? Find resources and information to help residents, businesses and visitors to prepare for all types of emergencies, and to stay safe.

Learn more about pets and animals, schools and libraries, parks and farmers’ markets, community gardens, and more.

There are many opportunities to get involved to help better the City of Alexandria. Opportunities include serving on a Board, Commission or Committee, providing input on a new City project or speaking at a City Council meeting.

Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

Historic Alexandria is a treasure trove of early structures, artifacts, and records that creates a unique way of life for its citizens and provides enjoyment for thousands of people who visit this special community every year. The City continues to add resources to its collection of local and nationally designated historic districts.

Find out whether a permit is required, the type of permit needed, fees involved, and what requirements are necessary for the activity you want to engage in Alexandria.

Information about parking in the City of Alexandria, including parking options, enforcement, districts and permits.

Alexandria is committed to ensuring our residents thrive through physical, mental, and social health.

Agencies and programs that help maintain our safety and overall quality of life. These links contain information about the City of Alexandria’s law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

Learn more about how the City maintains streets, sidewalks, bridges, and other infrastructure in the City.

The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

Did you know that ACPS is one of the most diverse school systems in the country? Our students come from more than 80 different countries, speak more than 60 languages, and represent a myriad of ethnic and cultural groups. The Alexandria Library is an educational, user-oriented service institution providing free public access to recorded knowledge and ideas.

The City provides public assistance as a safety net for individuals and families, including help with homelessness prevention, food, rent, utilities, medical coverage and prescriptions, job training and placement assistance, and much more.

The City of Alexandria does not operate any public utilities. The following companies are the primary providers of their respective service:

Whether you live here or are just visiting, Alexandria is a great place to shop, dine, take in the arts, get outdoors, and just have fun.

If you are looking for small-town charm and big-city amenities, Alexandria is the place to find them. Alexandria has a fascinating history, and many of its historic buildings are still preserved today. The City’s many historic homes, churches, businesses, and museums allow residents and visitors alike to experience the past that makes it the charming town it is today.

Through engaging the community, encouraging participation, and facilitating access to arts and culture, the City builds a vibrant community for its residents, workers, and visitors.

Find events and activities, shops and restaurants, concerts and performances, arts and culture, historic attractions, parks and libraries, farmers’ markets, and more.

Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

Alexandria is a desirable location to live, work and play. The City owns many of the premier historic sites in Alexandria and it is charged with the conservation, interpretation and promotion of these links to the past.

Alexandria is an active community that offers more than 900 acres of parks and dedicated public space, and a wide variety of neighborhood and recreation centers, pools, dog parks, farmers’ markets, waterfront activities and more.

Information about visiting Alexandria, including shopping, dining, attractions, accommodations, events listings and more. Plan your visit with an itinerary builder, interactive maps, hotel booking, online restaurant reservations and much more.

We are here to serve you. Browse the topics to the right to learn more about the programs and services we offer.

Connect with professional and knowledgeable staff for City service and information requests from every City department.

The City provides services to residents, businesses, contractors, and visitors needing permits for constructions and other developments.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) centrally manages, shares and analyzes information about locations through specialized mapping technology. This information increases transparency, improves many City technology applications and provides critical data to decision makers and the public.

Alexandria is committed to ensuring our residents thrive through physical, mental, and social health.

Learn more about how the City maintains streets, sidewalks, bridges, and other infrastructure in the City.

The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

Ideally located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is nationally recognized as one of the best places to live and do business on the east coast. Learn how we can help you start or relocate your business in Alexandria, and access resources for existing businesses and commuters.

The City provides services and resources to help existing businesses expand within the City and promotes recruiting new businesses in Alexandria.

Alexandria offers wide range of job opportunities and services. Work for City government or City Public Schools, find out about an internship opportunity or learn about workforce development and career training options.

Find out whether a permit is required, the type of permit needed, fees involved, and what requirements are necessary for the activity you want to engage in Alexandria.

The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

The Alexandria City Council is composed of a Mayor and six Council members who are elected at-large for three-year terms. The Mayor, who is chosen on a separate ballot, presides over meetings of the Council and serves as the ceremonial head of government.

The City of Alexandria has a strong commitment to citizen participation as evidenced by the number of citizen boards and commissions established by City Council. These bodies compose a formal system through which citizens can advise City Council on all major issues affecting the City.

View a list of City departments, offices and other agencies, and learn about their role in the organization.

Information about the City of Alexandria’s law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

Alexandria voters elect a Mayor and City Council and three local officers, as well as state and federal representatives.

There are many opportunities to get involved to help better the City of Alexandria. Opportunities include serving on a Board, Commission or Committee, providing input on a new City project or speaking at a City Council meeting.

The City government acts with integrity in an open process, and provides timely access to clear, trustworthy information, presented and employed by all parties from the beginning to the end of the process, including the reasoning that leads to and supports the policy conclusion.

Much of our work involves creating and improving infrastructure and planning for the future. Learn more about major projects and plans here, and how you can get involved!

There’s always something to do in Alexandria! Browse community events, government meetings and activities, and important deadlines.

Noise Control

The objective of Noise Control is to prevent any noise that annoys or disturbs the comfort, health, welfare, environment, peace, or safety of any person in the City of Alexandria.

Revised Noise Ordinance in Effect as of Jan. 1, 2022

The City of Alexandria’s revised noise control ordinance, which offers more protection in residential areas, went into effect on Jan. 1, 2022.

City Council unanimously voted to pass the revised noise control ordinance at the Dec. 18, 2021 public hearing, after considering extensive public input and reviewing noise control regulations at neighboring jurisdictions. City Council’s adoption culminated in a comprehensive effort to make the City’s noise control ordinance legally enforceable and more protective of residential areas, while allowing reasonable vibrancy in the business corridors during business hours.

How To Fix A Lawn Mower With No Compression

The following policy changes are effective immediately:

Do-it-yourself (DIY) construction activities are regulated by the permitted hours of 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Friday, and 9 a.m.to 9 p.m. on weekends and holidays;
Permissible noise limits at the property lines are determined by the property use category of the noise source;
The City adopts a more restrictive plainly audible standard from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. in residential areas.
The “Noise in Public Places. Central Business District” provisions are expanded to the entire City for regulating noise in public places in all parts of the City.
Loading, unloading and delivery activities are prohibited between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. if they occur within 500 feet of residential areas;
The decibel standard for commercial use is increased to 65 dB(A) for daytime hours of 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., while the nighttime standard remains at 60 dB(A);
The civil penalty for noise violations is increased to 100 for the first violation, 250 for the second violation and 500 for the third violation.

The Department of Transportation and Environmental Services Office of Environmental Quality (703.746.4065) will respond to noise complaints during regular business hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday. The Alexandria Police Department (703.746.4444) will respond to noise complaints during nighttime, weekends and holidays. Residents can also call 311 to log their complaints or use Alex 311 portal on the City website to report noise issues.

Noise Code in Alexandria

To review the City’s Noise codes, see Section 11, Chapter 5 of the City of Alexandria’s Code of Ordinances.

What is Noise Control?

The most common sources of noise include, but are not limited to:

Construction activities
Aircraft
Loud neighbors
Traffic
Leaf blowers and other lawn equipment
Loud music, boom cars
Sirens, car alarms, horn honking
Barking dogs and other animals

What is the City Doing?

The Environmental Noise Protection Program in the City of Alexandria consists of the following elements:

Incorporating U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recommended guidelines in the construction of new residential and commercial developments to meet indoor noise standards.
Use of the City’s 311 system to report noise complaints from citizens and to address those concerns in a timely manor.
Assessing the compliance and non-compliance of noise sources according to City’s Noise Code and taking enforcement action where warranted.

The Office of Environmental Quality (OEQ) and the Alexandria Police Department (APD) are responsible for enforcing Noise Control code in the City of Alexandria. An interim noise enforcement procedure has been effective since May 2021 until a more robust and permanent enforcement procedure and resources are implemented. According to this interim enforcement, OEQ is the primary responder for noise complaints during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) while the Police Department responds to noise complaints during after-hours and weekends. The Noise Control Code can be found in Section 11-5 in the Alexandria City Code. You may download a PDF copy of the Noise Code, or you may obtain a hard copy of the Noise Code by calling 703-746-4065 or by visiting the Office of Environmental Quality, 2900B Business Center Drive, Alexandria.

Sec. 11-5-12 of the Code describes the civic penalties that may be imposed by OEQ/APD for noise violations. Civil penalties range from 50 to 500, depending on the severity of the offense.

Please see Sec. 11-5-12 of the Code for more details on civic penalties. OEQ makes every effort to work with individuals to resolve noise issues before resorting to punitive measures.

How to Lodge a Complaint

The Department of Transportation and Environmental Services, through its Office of Environmental Quality (OEQ) administers and enforces the provisions of the Noise Code. The Police Department, Code Administration, and Construction Inspection Division are also responsible for enforcing the Noise Code.

OEQ answers complaints during regular business hours. Submit a complaint online with OEQ or call 703.746.4065.

Code Administration enforces the construction, construction devices and power equipment provisions of the Noise Code. Lodge a complaint online or call 703.746.4200.

The Police Department has a non-emergency phone number for complaints after regular business hours (after 5 pm on weekdays, during weekends, and Holidays when City Hall is closed). To lodge a complaint, please call 703.746.4444.

When lodging a complaint, please remember to include: 1) a description of the noise your experiencing; 2) your contact information if you would like a return call; 3) the location of your complaint; 4) time, date, and duration of the complaint; and 5) any additional information that will assist the staff with resolving the issue.

Sec. 11-5-12 describes the civic penalties that may be imposed by DEQ for noise violations. DEQ makes every effort to work with individuals to resolve noise issues before resorting to punitive measures.

What is Unlawful Noise?

Unlawful Noise is determined initially by testing the noise against ten different standards, as found in Section 11-5-4.

Decibel Level of noise;
Source of noise,
Zoning of the area within which the noise emanates;
Time of day or night the noise occurs;
Duration of the noise;
Whether the noise in recurrent, intermittent or constant.

The Office of Environmental Quality must then determine if the noise is a violation of the Noise Code, and may impose civic penalties, as described in Sec. 11-5-12. OEQ makes every effort to work with individuals to resolve noise issues before resorting to punitive measures.

Decibel Chart: How Loud Are You?

Unwanted sound is called noise. Sound is perceived when there is a variation of the static air pressure. Compared to the static air pressure, the variations that can be perceived by the ear are very small. The response of the ear is logarithmical rather than linear to the stimuli and therefore the acoustic parameters are expressed as a logarithmic ratio of the measured value to the reference value. This logarithmic ratio is called decibel (dB).

Aircraft Noise

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority voluntarily launched an interactive Community Complaint Dashboard.

The Complaint Dashboard provides easy access to noise complaint data while allowing the public to independently conduct preliminary research to answer:

WHEN: Complaints by Date, Complaints by Hour
WHERE: Zip Code Heat Map and Statistics Table

Through its participation in the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority National Airport Aircraft Noise Community Working Group, Alexandria successfully achieved support for ensuring aircraft flight over the city is minimized. View updated information on the Federal Aviation Administration’s advisory to air traffic controllers regarding the use of early turns from National Airport when air traffic is in south flow. Aircraft may only take early turns over Alexandria, rather than flying the prescribed FAA procedure for aircraft flying south from the airport (south flow), to or beyond the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, before turning inland, are only to be allowed in the case of weather changes, safety or national security. The minimization of early turns results in reduced aircraft noise for Alexandria residents.

Construction Noise

The use of Construction Devices and Power Equipment (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)15) is permitted during the following hours:

The use of Pile Drivers (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)19) is permitted during the following hours:

Monday. Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: Prohibited

All construction is prohibited on the following holidays (Sec. 11-5-5(a)(5)a):

New Year’s Day (the first day of January)
Memorial Day (the last Monday in May)
Independence Day (July 4)
Labor Day (the first Monday in September)
Thanksgiving Day (the fourth Thursday in November)
Christmas Day (December 25)

The use of all Construction Equipment, including Pile Drivers, is regulated by permitted hours, not by decibel levels.

AFTER HOURS CONSTRUCTION WORK

Permits are granted to applicants on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must demonstrate that operation during the permitted hours is not feasible. The application should also demonstrate how this noise allowance outside normal hours will benefit the City of Alexandria (e.g., mitigate traffic issues).

Section 11-5-7 of the City Noise Code describes the process required to apply for a noise variance. Please see Permits and Variances for more information.

TIPS FOR REDUCING CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES NOISE

The noise generated from construction sites is often characterized as being inherent to the process. Some of the noisiest devices utilized by workers are drills, saws, hammers, and generators. Despite popular belief, contractors can be successful at creating a quieter construction site by strategically identifying problematic noise sources and implementing measures such as the following:

Install temporary barriers/enclosures around noisy activities or equipment.
Consider implementing quieter process. For example, supplement pile driver activities with boring operations whenever possible.
Retrofit older equipment with sound absorbing material or add new mufflers.
Follow the manufacture’s recommended maintenance schedule to ensure proper functionality of the equipment.
Identify excessively noisy equipment and locate it as far away as possible from local residents.

Lawn Garden Noise

The use of Power Lawn and Garden Equipment (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)16), including lawn mowers, edgers, and leaf blowers, is permitted during the following hours:

Monday. Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Holidays: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Tips for Reducing Lawn and Gardening Equipment Noise

Limit the use of leaf blowers only during leaf collection season and not year-round.

Avoid using gas-powered leaf blowers early in the morning or for long periods of time.

Consider using rakes or battery-powered leaf blowers as an alternative.

If you are considering purchasing new leaf blowers, we recommend purchasing battery-powered units, as their effectiveness has significantly improved.

Noise emanating from lawn and gardening equipment has become source of increasing concern in the City of Alexandria. The most troublesome of these tools are the leaf blowers, trimmers, and lawn mowers. When operating this equipment, the following tips will help minimize disturbance to your neighbors.

Try to operate equipment during the afternoon or early evening hours. If at all possible, avoid operating equipment on Sundays.
Purchase electric-powered equipment versus gasoline-powered equipment. Most electric-powered devices are considerably quieter than their gasoline-powered counterparts.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to ensure proper functionality of the equipment.
Substitute power equipment with hand tools, reel mowers, lawn sweepers, rakes, and hand clippers.

Other Noises

VEHICLE NOISES

Truck Delivery, Loading, Unloading, Opening Boxes (Sec.11-5-4 (b)9): Loading and unloading is permitted after normal business hours, provided that the operation does not cause excessive noise. Excessive noise is defined by Sec. 11-5-3 Tests for unlawful noise. Businesses that operate under special use permits may have additional restrictions placed on them during business hours.
Bus/Truck Idling Noise: Vehicles may run their engines at idle for no longer than 10 minutes at any time according to State of Virginia Air Quality Regulations.
Trash Pickup Hours: Trash Pickup Hours are set by Title 5, Chapter 1 of the City Code. From May 1 to September 30, waste haulers are not permitted to begin operating before 6:00 a.m. From October 1 to April 30, waste haulers are not permitted to begin operating before 7:00 a.m. If City residents have a complaint about trash pickup noise, they are encouraged to call the Code Enforcement at 703.746.4200 and report the hauler name and license plate or truck identification number.
Train Noise Per the City noise code section 11-5-6 (6 8), any railroad operated in conformity with, or pursuant to federal laws and regulations are exempt. Noises resulting from the operation of rail Rapid transit systems are also exempt. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) does not regulate the use of train horns. However, FRA requires operating railroads to develop and enforce a set of operating rules and City staff regularly consults with train operators when a specific noise issue arises. Construction on railroad property is regulated by Sec. 11-5-4 (10 15).
Aircraft Noise (Sec. 11-5-6-5): Aircraft are exempt from the City Noise Code. However, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the most noise-controlled airports in the United States. Under the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority’s regulations, aircraft may be only operated after 9:59 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m. if the noise level for the aircraft type and model meets National Airport’s strict noise standards, which are designed to minimize sleep interference. Complaints can be logged with the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority (MWAA) by calling 703.417.8020. For more information, please visit the MWAA Noise Abatement Program website.

Presentation to Old Town Civic Association on Aircraft Noise at Reagan National Airport, October 12, 2016

RESIDENTIAL NOISES

AC/Heat Pump Noise (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)17): In residential areas, the noise code allows up to 55 decibels at the property line; in commercial areas, the noise code allows up to 60 decibels at the property line; in industrial areas, the noise code allows up to 70 decibels at the property line. The same restrictions apply for other noises generated within the property line, such as wind chimes or fans.
Speaker Noise (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)2): The operation of any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, or any other sound reproducing device is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if the sound is plainly audible across property boundaries at a distance of 50 feet from the source of the noise.
TV/Stereo Noise (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)2): The operation of any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, or any other sound reproducing device is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if the sound is plainly audible across property boundaries at a distance of 50 feet from the source of the noise.
Block Parties: Block parties must obtain a noise variance permit from OEQ and contact Construction and Inspection Division for an Application to Close City Street permit.
Parties at Home: No special permits are issued for private parties. All private parties must comply with the noise code.
Barking Dogs and other Animals (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)5): Residents may call the Department of Animal Control to discuss techniques to train noisy pets, services to help animals and their companions, or register complaint against licensed or unlicensed pets. The Alexandria Department of Animal Control can be reached by calling 703.746.4774 or by visiting alexandriaanimals.org.
Homeowner Construction Work (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)10): Homeowners are exempt from the Construction Hours provision of the Noise Code. This exemption does not apply when work involves use of power equipment, nor does it apply when the homeowner is acting as a general contractor and/or working for commercial purpose. Homeowners may engage in construction operations at their residences during the following permitted hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

INSTITUTIONAL NOISE

Church Services: Churches must comply with the noise code.
School Activity Noise: Schools must comply with the noise code.
Noise in Public Places (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)4): Loud noises are not permitted in public places between the hours 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Central Business District Noise Regulations (Sec. 11-5-4.1): The Central Business District (CDB) is located in Old Town, Alexandria and is bounded to the east by the Potomac River; to the south by Duke Street; to the west by S. Peyton Street and N. West Street; and to the north by Queen Street. Due to the busy nature of the CBD, the hours and volume of permitted noise is different than in the rest of the City.

Between the hours 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., no sounds may be louder than 75 decibels, nor may they be sustained for greater than 60 seconds in any one hour period.
Between the hours 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., no sounds may be louder than 65 decibels, nor may they be sustained for greater than 60 seconds in any one hour period

Between the hours 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., no sounds may be louder than 75 decibels at a distance of 10 feet from the place at which the sound is being generated or produced. The burden of proof shall be on the person responsible for such sound generation to prove otherwise.
Between the hours 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., no sounds may be louder than 65 decibels at a distance of 10 feet from the place at which the sound is being generated or produced. The burden of proof shall be on the person responsible for such sound generation to prove otherwise.

Permits Variances

The City Manager, or his duly authorized representative, may grant permits for relief of the City Noise Code on the basis of undue hardship from a noise level or time limits designated by the City.

In most cases, construction activities must be permitted by the City prior to operation outside of the permitted hours. Applicants must fax in a completed permit application, which upon approval, must be picked up at the Transportation and Environmental Services, Construction and Inspection office. The permit fee is 50.00 per permit.

Permits are granted to applicants on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must demonstrate that operation during the permitted hours is not feasible. The application should also demonstrate how this noise allowance outside normal hours will benefit the City of Alexandria. For more information, please see Section 11-5-7 of the City Noise Code.

If you are planning to use sound amplification equipment on City property (streets, parks, etc.), or if your event is on private property but is open to the public, you may be required to obtain a Noise Variance Permit to operate sound amplification equipment in the City.

Information about the City’s permit application and requirement process may be found here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

GENERAL NOISE ISSUES

What is a decibel? How loud are everyday events? A decibel (dB) is a unit for describing sound pressure levels. A-Weighted sound measurements (dBA) are filtered to reduce the effect of very low and very high frequencies, better representing human hearing.

For example, ordinary conversation between two people standing three feet away is measured at 60 dBA lawn mower produces 100 dBA rock concert produces more than 120 dBA.

Please see the Decibel Chart for details.

Does the City of Alexandria have quiet hours? Yes. It is unlawful for any person to make unreasonably loud or unnecessary noise in public places between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Please see Sec. 11-5-4 (b)4 in the Noise Code for details.

How does OEQ determine if a noise is unreasonably loud or unnecessary? Unlawful Noise is initially determined by testing the noise against ten different standards, as found in Section 11-5-3.

Decibel level of noise;
Source of sound
Zoning of the area within which the noise emanates;
Time of day or night the noise occurs;
Whether the noise in recurrent, intermittent or constant; and
Whether the noise is produced by a commercial or noncommercial entity.

In addition, and when necessary, OEQ has the authority to exercise discretion on a case-by-case basis when a noise issue falls outside of the parameters of the ten standards listed above.

CONSTRUCTION NOISE ISSUES

What are the regular hours in which Construction is allowed? Construction is permitted during the following hours:

The use of Pile Drivers (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)19) is permitted during the following hours:

Monday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: Prohibited

All construction is prohibited on the following holidays (Sec. 11-5-5(a)(5)a.):

New Year’s Day (the first day of January)
Memorial Day (the last Monday in May)
Independence Day (July 4)
Labor Day (the first Monday in September)
Thanksgiving Day (the fourth Thursday in November)
Christmas Day (December 25)

Why are some construction operations allowed after the permitted hours? In most cases, construction activities must be permitted by the City prior to operation outside of the permitted hours. Applicants must submit a completed permit application, which, upon approval, must be picked up at the Permit Center in City Hall. Permits are granted to applicants on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must demonstrate that operation during the permitted hours is not feasible. For more information, please see Section 11-5-7 of the City Noise Code.

VEHICLE NOISE ISSUES

There are car alarms in my neighborhood that go off at night. Who should I call? Please call the Alexandria Police Department non-emergency number 703.746.4444.

What about loud car stereos, mufflers and motorcycles? Please call the Alexandria Police Department non-emergency number 703.746.4444.

The garbage trucks wake me up in the morning. What are their permitted hours of activity? Trash Pickup Hours are set by Item 5, Chapter 1 of the City Code. From May 1 to September 30, waste haulers are not permitted to being operating before 6:00 a.m. From October 1 to April 30, waste haulers are not permitted to begin operating before 7:00 a.m. If City residents have a complaint about trash pickup noise, they are encouraged to call the Code Enforcement at 703.746.4200 and report the hauler name and license plate or truck identification number.

The airplanes that fly over the City on their way to the airports are very loud. Is there a way for the City to alter their flight path? Aircraft are exempt from the City Noise Code. However, the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the most stringently noise-controlled airports in the United States. Under the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority’s regulations, aircraft may be only operated after 9:59 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m. if the noise level for the aircraft type and model meets National Airport’s strict noise standards which are designed to minimize sleep interference. Complaints can be logged with the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority MWAA complaint line by calling 703.417.1204. For more information, please visit the MWAA Noise Abatement Program website. Please see Sec. 11-5-6-5 for the full Code reference.

The trains are very loud. Do they have to blow their steam whistles? The City of Alexandria cannot regulate train noise due to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) regulations (Sec. 11-5-6-6, 8). However, construction on railroad property is regulated by Sec. 11-5-4 (b)15: Construction Devices and Power Equipment.

RESIDENTIAL NOISE ISSUES

My neighbor is adding onto his residence. What are the permitted hours for homeowner construction? In general, homeowners can conduct general construction work in the same permitted hours as those for power lawn and garden equipment. Homeowners are exempt from the Construction Hours provision of the Noise Code (Sec. 11-5-4 (b)10). This exemption does not apply when work involves use of power equipment, nor does it apply when the homeowner is acting as a general contractor and/or working for commercial purpose. Homeowners may engage in construction operations at their residences during the following permitted hours:

Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday Sunday: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Holidays:: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

My neighbor plays loud music throughout the night. Can OEQ make them stop? OEQ does not handle disputes between neighbors. The best solution would be to talk to your neighbor face to face and kindly ask them to respect your need for quiet. If you live in an apartment building, you might consider contacting the building management. If you are still unable to resolve the dispute, please call the Alexandria Police Department non-emergency phone number 703.746.4444.

I hear dogs barking at night. Is there anyone I can call to make them stop? The proper authority to contact is the Department of Animal Control at 703.746.4774.

Our neighborhood wants to have a block party. What forms do we need to fill out to close the street down and play loud music? You need an Application to Close City Street form and a Petition to Close City Street for a Neighborhood Block Party form. These forms must be submitted to the Construction Management and Inspection Division, located on the 2nd floor of the Redella S. “Dell” Pepper Community Center at 4850 Mark Center Dr. Upon approval of the street closure permit, the applicant must apply for a Noise Variance Permit: Music and Sound Amplification. This permit must be submitted to the Office of Environmental Quality, located in Room 3900 in City Hall.

INSTITUTIONAL NOISE ISSUES

I want to play musical advertisements outside of my place of business. Is this legal? No. According to Sec.11-5-4 (b)3 of the City Noise Code, audio commercial advertising is prohibited within the City of Alexandria, with the possible exception of political advertising.

If audio commercial advertising is prohibited within the City of Alexandria, why are ice cream trucks allowed to play music? Mobile ice cream vendors are not permitted to play music in excess of ten seconds; they must also limit the frequency of the music played to once per two minutes per City block. Please see Sec. 11-5-4(b)1 of the City Noise Code for more details.

VARIANCES AND SPECIAL PERMITS

I want to apply for a special permit or a variance to the Noise Code. How do I do this? Applicants must submit a completed permit application and then pick it up at Construction and Inspection office (located on the 2nd floor of the Redella S. “Dell” Pepper Community Center at 4850 Mark Center Dr.) after it is approved. There is a fee for the application. Permits are granted to applicants on a case-by- case basis, and they must demonstrate that operation during the permitted hours is not feasible. For more information, please see Section 11-5-7 of the City Noise Code.

Lawn mower noise restrictions

(Added by O-2170; Amended by O-2211)

46.1.1 DECLARATION OF POLICY.

It is hereby declared to be the policy of the City to prohibit unnecessary, excessive and annoying noises from all sources subject to its police power. At certain levels noises are detrimental to the health and welfare of the citizenry and in the public interests shall be systematically proscribed.

46.1.2 DEFINITIONS. Revised 5/23

As used in this Chapter, unless the context otherwise clearly indicates, the words and phrases used in this Chapter are defined as follows:

a) Ambient noise is the all encompassing noise associated with a given environment, being usually a composite of sounds from many sources near and far, without inclusion of intruding noises from isolated identifiable sources.

b) Decibel (db) shall mean a unit of level which denotes the ratio between two (2) quantities which are proportional to power; the number of decibels corresponding to the ratio to two (2) amounts of power is ten (10) times the logarithm to the base ten (10) of this ratio.

c) Emergency or utility power outages shall mean any City, County or State declared emergency, or interruption of utility power due to preventive utility shut-off measures or due to damage to utility infrastructure from accidents, earthquakes, fires, floods, storms, winds, or their acts; or any event deemed to be an emergency by City officials to preserve and protect life and property.

d) Emergency work shall mean work made necessary to restore property to a safe condition following a public calamity or work required to protect persons or property from an imminent exposure to danger.

e) Noise level, in decibels, is the A-weighted sound pressure level as measured using the slow dynamic characteristic for sound level meters specified in ASA S1.4-1961, American Standard Specification for General Purpose Sound Level Meters, or latest revision thereof. The reference pressure is twenty (20) micronewtons/square meter (2 x 10-4 microbar).

f) Person shall mean a person, firm, association, co-partnership, joint venture, corporation or any entity, public or private in nature.

g) Sound level meter shall mean an instrument including a microphone, an amplifier, an output meter, and frequency weighting networks for the measurement of noise and sound levels in a specified manner as specified in ASA S1.4-1961, American Standard Specification for General Purpose Sound Level Meters, or latest revision thereof.

h) Sound pressure level, in decibels (db) of a sound is twenty (20) times the logarithm to the base ten (10) of the ratio of the pressure of this sound to the reference pressure. For the purpose of this Chapter the reference pressure shall be twenty (20) micronewtons/square meter (2 x 10-4 microbar).

i) Impulsive sound means a short duration sound (such as might be produced by the impact of a drop hammer or pile driver) with one (1) second or less duration.

j) Motor vehicles shall include, but not be limited to, minibikes and go carts.

k) Routine testing of stationary generators for residential use shall mean the required and routine testing per manufacturers’ recommendations to maintain and keep ready stationary generators for residential use. However, such routine testing shall not occur more than once a week for a time period longer than 30 minutes and only between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.

l) Sound amplifying equipment shall mean any machine or device for the amplification of the human voice, music, or any other sound. Sound amplifying equipment shall not include standard automobile radios when used and heard only by the occupants of the vehicle in which the automobile radio is installed. Sound amplifying equipment, as used in this Chapter, shall not include warning devices on authorized emergency vehicles or horns or other warning devices on any vehicle used only for traffic safety purposes.

m) Sound truck shall mean any motor vehicle, or any other vehicle regardless of motive power, whether in motion or stationary, having mounted thereon, or attached thereto, any sound amplifying equipment.

n) Stationary generator for residential use shall mean any Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listed, or third party listed by an agency approved by the City of Torrance, natural gas and/or propane fired generator permanently installed and connected to the building’s electrical system with building permits issued by the City, and only intended to provide power during emergencies or utility power outages. Generators must meet the setback requirements of the applicable zone and have a maximum capacity of 24kW.

o) Commercial purpose shall mean and include the use, operation or maintenance of any sound amplifying equipment for the purpose of advertising any business or any goods or any services, or for the purpose of attracting the attention of the public to, or advertising for, or soliciting patronage or customers to or for any performance, show, entertainment, exhibition, or event, or for the purpose of demonstrating any such sound equipment.

p) Noncommercial purpose shall mean the use, operation or maintenance of any sound equipment for other than a commercial purpose. Noncommercial purposes shall mean and include, but shall not be limited to, philanthropic, political, patriotic and charitable purposes.

q) Residential land shall mean that land which is utilized for residential purposes or zoned for residential purposes.

r) Residential purpose means any purpose involving routine and relatively permanent use of a building as a dwelling, as opposed to relatively transient uses such as hotels and motels.

s) Day means the time period from 7:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M.

t) Night means the time period from 10:00 P.M. to 7:00 A.M.

46.1.3 MEASUREMENTS.

Noise levels shall be measured with a sound level meter satisfying the requirements of ASA S1.4-1961, American Standard Specification for General Purpose Sound Level Meters, or latest revision thereof. Noise level of steady or slowly varying sounds shall be measured using the slow dynamic characteristic of the sound level meter and by reading the central tendency of the needle. Noise level of impulse sounds shall be measured using the fast dynamic characteristic of the sound level meter and by reading the maximum indication of the needle.

46.2.1 RADIOS, TELEVISION SETS AND SIMILAR DEVICES.

a) Use Restricted. It shall be unlawful for any person within the City of Torrance to use or operate any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, television set, or other machine or device for the producing or reproducing of sound at any time in such a manner as to produce noise levels on residential land which would disturb the peace, quiet and comfort of neighboring residents or any reasonable person of normal sensitiveness residing in the area.

b) Prima Facie Violation. Any noise exceeding the ambient noise level at the property line of any residential land (or if a condominium or apartment house, within any adjoining apartment) by more than five (5) decibels shall be deemed to be prima facie evidence of a violation of the provisions of this Section.

46.2.2 HAWKERS AND PEDDLERS.

It shall be unlawful for any person within the City to sell anything by outcry within any area of the City utilized for residential purposes. The provisions of this Section shall not be construed to prohibit the selling by outcry of merchandise, food and beverages at licensed sporting events, parades, fairs, circuses and other similar licensed public entertainment events.

46.2.3 DRUMS.

It shall be unlawful for any person to use any drum or other instrument or device of any kind for the purpose of attracting attention by the creation of noise within the City. This Section shall not apply to any person who is a participant in a school Band or duly licensed parade or who has been otherwise duly authorized by the City to engage in such conduct.

46.2.4 SCHOOLS, HOSPITALS AND CHURCHES.

It shall be unlawful for any person to create any noise on any street, sidewalk or public place adjacent to any school, institution of learning or church while the same is in use or adjacent to any hospital, which noise unreasonably interferes with the workings of such institution or which disturbs or unduly annoys patients in the hospital, provided conspicuous signs are displayed in such streets, sidewalks or public place indicating the presence of a school, church or hospital.

46.2.5 ANIMALS AND FOWL.

No person shall keep or maintain, or permit the keeping of upon any premises owned, occupied or controlled by such person, any animal or fowl otherwise permitted to be kept which, by any sound, cry or behavior shall cause annoyance or discomfort to a reasonable person of normal sensitiveness on any residential land.

46.2.6 MACHINERY, EQUIPMENT, FANS AND AIR CONDITIONING.

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate any machinery, equipment, pump, fan, air conditioning apparatus or similar mechanical device in any manner so as to create any noise which would cause the noise level at the property line of any residential land to exceed the ambient noise level by more than five (5) decibels.

46.2.7 OIL PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT.

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate, or cause to be operated any oil production equipment in any manner so as to create any noise which would cause the noise level at the nearest property line of any residential land to exceed the ambient noise level by more than five (5) decibels; provided, however, that the aforesaid provisions of this Section shall not apply to oil production equipment being used in the drilling, redrilling, deepening, repair, maintenance or abandonment of an oil well.

46.2.8 TRAIN HORNS AND WHISTLES.

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or sound or cause to be operated or sounded, between the hours of 10:00 p.m. of one day and 7:00 a.m. of the next day, a train horn or train whistle which creates noise in excess of ninety-six (96) dB at any place or point three hundred (300) feet or more distant from along a line normal to the direction of travel of the source of such sound.

46.3.1 CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS AND PROJECTS.

a) It shall be unlawful for any person within the City of Torrance to operate power construction tools, equipment, or engage in the performance of any outside construction or repair work on buildings, structures, or projects in or adjacent to a residential area involving the creation of noise beyond 50 decibels (db) as measured at property lines, except between the hours of 7:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Monday through Friday and 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. on Saturdays. Construction shall be prohibited on Sundays and Holidays observed by City Hall. An exception exists between the hours of 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. for homeowners that reside at the property.

b) The Community Development Director may allow expanded hours and days of construction if unusual circumstances and conditions exist. Such requests must be made in writing and must receive approval by the Director prior to any expansion of the hour and day restrictions listed above.

c) Every construction project requiring Planning Commission review or considered to be a significant remodel as defined by Section 231.1.2, shall be required to post an information board along the front property line that displays the property owner’s name and contact number, contractor’s name and contact number, a copy of TMC Section 46.3.1, a list of any special conditions, and the Code Enforcement phone number where violations can be reported.

d) Properties zoned as commercial, industrial or within an established redevelopment District, are exempted from the above day and hour restrictions if a minimum buffer of 300 feet is maintained from the subject property’s property line to the closest residential property. The Community Development Director, may, however, revoke such exemption for a particular project if the noise level exceeds 50 decibels (db) at the property line of a residential property beyond the 300 linear foot buffer.

e) Heavy construction equipment such as pile drivers, mechanical shovels, derricks, hoists, pneumatic hammers, compressors or similar devices shall not be operated at any time, within or adjacent to a residential area, without first obtaining from the Community Development Director permission to do so. Such request for permission shall include a list and type of equipment to be used, the requested hours and locations of its use, and the applicant shall be required to show that the selection of equipment and construction techniques has been based on minimization of noise within the limitations of such equipment as is commercially available or combinations of such equipment and auxiliary sound barriers. Such permission to operate heavy construction equipment will be revoked if operation of such equipment is not in accordance to approval. No permission shall be required to perform emergency work as defined in Article 1 of this Chapter.

46.3.2 OPERATION OF OIL EQUIPMENT.

a) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate machinery or power tools for the repair, maintenance or abandonment of oil well equipment on Sundays and legal holidays and, except between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 8:00 P.M., on any other day; provided, however, that the provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any well, the surface of which is three hundred (300) or more feet from any dwelling.

b) It shall be unlawful for any person to conduct oil drilling or redrilling operations other than circulation of mud, on Sundays and legal holidays and, except between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M., on any other day; provided, however, that the provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any well the surface of which is three hundred (300) or more feet from any dwelling.

c) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate machinery or power tools for the repair, maintenance or abandonment of oil well equipment or to conduct oil well drilling or redrilling operations at any time within three hundred (300) feet of any dwelling without first obtaining from the Director of Building and Safety permission to do so. Such request for permission shall include a list and type of equipment to be used, the requested hours and locations of its use. The Director of Building and Safety shall issue such permit only if the applicant demonstrates to the reasonable satisfaction of the Director that the selection of equipment and construction techniques has been based on minimization of noise within the limitations of such equipment as is commercially available or combinations of such equipment and auxiliary sound barriers or acoustical sound blankets as provided in Section 46.3.3. Such permission to operate oil well equipment shall be revoked if such equipment is not operated and construction is not accomplished in accordance with the conditions of approval. No permission shall be required to perform emergency work as defined in Article 1 of this Chapter. The person performing such emergency work shall first notify the occupants of adjacent residences and the Torrance Police Department as to the nature and extent of the work to be performed.

46.3.3 ACOUSTICAL BLANKETS.

Acoustical blankets shall be made of fibrous glass insulation 1-1/2 inches thick, 0.50 pounds per cubic foot density, 0.63 pounds per square foot weight.00010 to.00015 fibre diameter (inches) with phenolic binder having a temperature limit of 450 degrees F. sewed between layers of fire retardant vinyl fibre glass cloth, 15-17 ounces per square yard sewed with dacron thread D-92 with stitches not more than six (6) to the inch. The lacing cord shall be flat vinyl coated tape composed of fibrous glass yard braided, heat set and bonded. The tape shall have a 90 pound tensile strength. Grommets shall be No. 4 brass. Provided, however, that there may be substituted for the aforesaid specifications an acoustical blanket which in the opinion of the Director of Building and Safety is equal to sound-proofing ability and fire resistive qualities to the aforesaid specifications.

46.4.1 VEHICLE REPAIRS.

It shall be unlawful for any person within the City of Torrance to repair, rebuild or test any motor vehicle at any time in such a manner that a reasonable person of normal sensitiveness located on residential land is caused discomfort or annoyance by reason of the noise produced therefrom.

46.4.2 MOTOR DRIVEN VEHICLES.

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate any motor driven vehicle within the City in such a manner that a reasonable person of normal sensitiveness residing in the area is caused discomfort or annoyance; provided, however, that any such vehicle which is operated upon any public highway, street or right-of-way shall be excluded from the provisions of this Section, provided the provisions of the California Motor Vehicle Code, Sections 23130, 27150 and 27151 are complied with.

46.5.1 PURPOSE.

The Council enacts the provisions of this Article for the sole purpose of securing and promoting the public health, comfort, safety, and welfare for its citizenry. While recognizing that the use of sound amplifying equipment is protected by the constitutional rights of freedom of speech and assembly, the Council nevertheless feels obligated to reasonably regulate the use of sound amplifying equipment in order to protect the correlative constitutional rights of the citizens of this community to privacy and freedom from public nuisance of loud and unnecessary noise.

46.5.2 APPLICATION REQUIRED.

It shall be unlawful for any person, other than personnel of law enforcement or governmental agencies, to install, use or operate within the City a loudspeaker or sound amplifying equipment in a fixed or movable position or mounted upon any sound truck for the purposes of giving instructions, directions, talks, addresses, lectures or transmitting music to any persons or assemblages of persons in or upon any street, alley, sidewalk, park, place or public property without first filing an application and obtaining a permit therefor as set forth in Division 3 of this Code.

46.5.3 REGULATIONS.

The commercial and noncommercial use of sound amplifying equipment shall be subject to the following regulations:

a) The only sounds permitted shall be either music or human speech, or both.

b) The operation of sound amplifying equipment shall only occur between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M. each day except on Sundays and legal holidays. The operation of sound amplifying equipment for noncommercial purposes on Sundays and legal holidays shall only occur between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M.

c) No sound emanating from sound amplifying equipment shall exceed fifteen (15) dBA above the ambient as measured at any property line.

d) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection c) of this Section, sound amplifying equipment shall not be operated within two hundred (200) feet of churches, schools or hospitals.

e) In any event, the volume of sound shall be so controlled that it will not be unreasonably loud, raucous, jarring, disturbing or a nuisance to reasonable persons of normal sensitiveness within the area of audibility.

46.6.1 EXCESSIVE NOISE PROHIBITED.

a) It shall be unlawful for any person within the City of Torrance to operate power gardening equipment, including but not limited to leaf blowers, mowers and edgers, or engage in the performance of gardening work with powered equipment in or adjacent to a residential area involving the creation of noise beyond fifty (50) decibels (dB) as measured at property lines, except between the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Operation of powered gardening equipment shall be prohibited on Sundays and holidays observed by City Hall. An exception exists between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for homeowners that reside at the property.

b) Properties zoned as commercial, industrial or within an established redevelopment district are exempted from the above day and hour restrictions if a minimum buffer of three hundred (300) feet is maintained from the subject property’s property line to the closest residential property. The Community Development Director may, however, revoke such exemption for a particular property if the noise level exceeds fifty (50) decibels (dB) at the property line of a residential property beyond the three hundred (300) linear foot buffer.

46.7.1 GENERAL NOISE REGULATIONS.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter and in addition thereto, it shall be unlawful for any person to willfully make or continue, or cause to be made or continued, any loud, unnecessary or unusual noise which disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood or which causes discomfort or annoyance to any reasonable person of normal sensitiveness residing in the area.

46.7.2 NOISE LIMITS.

To provide for methodical enforcement and to give reasonable notice of the performance standards to be met, the foregoing intent is expressed in the following numerical standards. For purposes of this Chapter, the City is divided into regions as set forth in Exhibit A.

a) Noise Limits on Residential Land. It shall be unlawful for any person within the City of Torrance (wherever located) to produce noise in excess of the following levels as received on residential land owned or occupied by another person within the designated regions. In addition to the noise limits stated herein, the noise limits set forth in Sec. 46.7.2.b) shall also be complied with.

1) For noise receivers located on residential land, for measurement positions five hundred (500) feet or more distant from the boundaries of Regions 1 and 2, the following limits apply:

REGION (in which noise receiver is located)

2) For noise receivers located on residential land, for positions within five hundred (500) feet from the boundary of Region 1 or 2, the following limits apply:

Five (5) dB above the limits set forth in Section 46.7.2.a) 1 above, or 5 dB above the ambient noise level, whichever is the lower number.

b) Noise Limits at Industrial and Commercial Boundaries:

1) Noise Sources in Region 1: It shall be unlawful for any person in Region 1 to produce noise levels at the boundary of Region 1 in excess of 70 dB during the day or 65 dB during the night.

2) Noise Sources in Region 2: It shall be unlawful for any person in Region 2 to produce noise levels at the boundary of Region 2 in excess of 60 dB during the day or 55 dB during the night.

3) Noise Sources in All Remaining Industrial Use Land: It shall be unlawful for any person on industrial use land outside Region 1 and 2 to produce noise levels at his own property boundary in excess of 60 dB during the day or 55 dB during the night.

4) Noise Sources on All Land Use for Commercial Purposes: It shall be unlawful for any person on land used for commercial purposes to produce noise levels at his own property boundary in excess of 60 dB during the day or 55 dB during the night.

In addition to the noise limits set forth herein (Sec. 46.7.2.b), the noise limits set forth in Sec. 46.7.2.(a) shall also be complied with.

c) Corrections to the Noise Limits: The numerical limits given in Sec. 46.7.2.(a) and (b) shall be adjusted by addition of the following corrections where appropriate.

Correction to the Limits, decibels

Noise contains a steady, audible tone, such as a whine, screech or hum

Noise is a repetitive impulsive noise, such as hammering or riveting

If the noise is not continuous, one of the following corrections to the limits shall be applied:

Noise occurs less than 5 hours per day or less than 1 hour per night

Noise occurs less than 90 minutes per day or less than 20 minutes per night

Noise occurs less than 30 minutes per day or less than 6 minutes per night

Noise occurs on Sunday morning (between 12:01 A.M. and 12:01 P.M. Sunday)

46.7.3 EXCEPTIONS. Revised 5/23

The following noise sources are specifically excluded from the provisions of this Chapter:

2) Motor vehicles operating in accordance with Sec. 46.4.2. and in accordance with all the sections of the California Motor Vehicles Code.

3) Stationary Generator for Residential Use, as defined in accordance with Section 46.1.2(n); and installed and used during emergencies or utility power outages, as defined in accordance with Section 46.1.2(c); or for routine testing and maintenance, as defined in accordance with Section 46.1.2(k).

46.8.1 VIOLATIONS UNLAWFUL.

It shall be unlawful for any person to pilot or operate or permit to be piloted or operated an aircraft in violation of the provisions of Sections 46.8.8., 46.8.9. or 46.8.14.

46.8.2 EXTENDED AIRPORT BOUNDARIES DEFINED.

For the purposes of this Article, the term extended airport boundaries shall mean the area enclosed by Lomita Boulevard on the north, Crenshaw Boulevard on the east, Pacific Coast Highway on the south and Hawthorne Boulevard on the west.

46.8.3 TAKE-OFF DEFINED.

For the purposes of this Article, take-off shall mean the flight of an aircraft departing Torrance Airport from the time it commences on its departure on the runway.

46.8.4 LANDING DEFINED.

For the purposes of this Article, landing shall mean the flight of an aircraft from the time it begins its landing approach until it is taxied from the runway.

46.8.5 SOUND EXPOSURE LEVEL.

For the purposes of this Article, the sound exposure level is the level of sound accumulated during a given event, with reference to a duration of one second. specifically, sound exposure level, in decibels, is the level of the time-integrated A-weighted squared sound pressure for a stated time interval or event, based on the reference pressure of 20 micronewtons per square meter and reference duration of one second.

46.8.6 SENEL.

For the purposes of this Article, the single event noise exposure level (SENEL), in decibels, is the sound exposure level of a single event, such as an aircraft fly-by, measured over the time interval between the initial and final times for which the sound level of a single event exceeds the threshold sound level. For implementation of the provisions of this Article, the threshold noise level shall be at least 20 decibels below the numerical value of the single event noise exposure level limits specified in Sections 46.8.8. or 46.8.9. as the case may be.

46.8.7 MAXIMUM SOUND LEVEL DEFINED.

For the purposes of this Article, the maximum sound level, in decibels, is the highest sound level reached at any instant of time during the time interval used in measuring the sound exposure level of a single event.

46.8.8 AIRCRAFT NOISE LIMIT.

Except as provided in Section 46.8.10., no aircraft taking off from or landing on the Torrance Municipal Airport may exceed a single event noise exposure level (SENEL) of 88 dBA or a maximum sound level of 82 dBA measured at ground level outside the extended Airport boundaries.

46.8.9 AIRCRAFT NOISE LIMIT AT NIGHT.

Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 46.8.8., except as provided in Section 46.8.10., no aircraft taking off from or landing on the Torrance Municipal Airport between the hours of 10:00 P.M. of any day and 7:00 A.M. of the following morning on any Monday through Friday inclusive, nor between the hours of 10:00 P.M. each night and 8:00 A.M. of the following morning on any Saturday or Sunday inclusive, nor on any of the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day; provided, however, that if any such holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the observance of which is then moved to the preceding Friday, or the following Monday, then such Friday or Monday shall be considered to be a holiday for purposes of this section, may exceed a single event noise exposure level (SENEL) of 82 dBA or a maximum sound level of 76 dBA measured at ground level outside the extended Airport boundaries.

46.8.10 AIRCRAFT NOISE EXEMPTION.

The following categories of aircraft shall be exempt from the provisions of Sections 46.8.8. and 46.8.9.:

1) Aircraft operated by the United States of America or the State of California;

How to Troubleshoot Your Lawn Mower Not Starting

2) Law enforcement, emergency, fire or rescue aircraft operated by any county or city of said state;

3) Aircraft used for emergency purposes during an emergency that has been officially proclaimed by competent authority pursuant to the laws of the United States, said State or the City;

4) Civil Air Patrol aircraft when engaged in actual search and rescue missions;

5) Aircraft engaged in landings or takeoffs while conducting tests under the direction of the Airport Manager in an attempt to rebut the presumption of aircraft noise violation pursuant to the provisions of Section 46.8.13

6) Aircraft while participating in a City-sponsored event approved by City Council.

46.8.11 CULPABILITY OF INSTRUCTOR PILOT.

In the case of any training flight in which both an instructor pilot and a student pilot are in the aircraft which is flown in violation of any of the provisions of this Article, the instructor pilot shall be rebuttably presumed to have caused such violation.

46.8.12 CULPABILITY OF AIRCRAFT OWNER OR LESSEE.

For purposes of this Article, the beneficial owner of an aircraft shall be presumed to be the pilot of the aircraft with authority to control the aircraft’s operations, except that where the aircraft is leased, the lessee shall be presumed to be the pilot. Such presumption may be rebutted only if the owner or lessee identifies the person who in fact was the pilot at the time of the asserted violation.

46.8.13 DENIAL OF USE OF AIRPORT.

(See Section 51.7.2. et seq. concerning denial of the use of the Airport for repeated violations of this Article.)

46.8.14 PRESUMPTION OF AIRCRAFT NOISE VIOLATION.

In the event that the Airport Manager determines to his reasonable satisfaction that available published noise measurements for a particular type or class of aircraft indicate that it cannot meet the noise levels set forth in Sections 46.8.8. and 46.8.9., it shall be presumed that operation of such aircraft will result in violation of the provisions of Sections 46.8.8. and 46.8.9. and such aircraft will not be permitted to land on, tie down on, be based at or take off from the Torrance Municipal Airport, except in emergencies as set forth in Section 51.4.2.; provided, however, that the owner or operator of such aircraft shall be entitled to rebut such presumption to the reasonable satisfaction of the Airport Manager by furnishing evidence to the contrary.

46.8.15 DESIGNATED ENFORCEMENT OFFICIAL.

The Director of Building and Safety, the Administrator of Environmental Quality, the Environmental Quality Officers and such other City employees as are designated by the Director of Building and Safety with the approval of the City Manager, all acting under the direction and control of the City Manager, shall have the duty and authority to enforce the provisions of this Article, pursuant to the provisions of Section 836.5 of the State Penal Code.

Noise Complaints

Noise complaints continue to be the number one quality of life issue for residents.

What Noise is Permitted in Single-Family Neighborhoods?

In single-family neighborhoods between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. the acceptable amount of noise can be described as the sound of a dishwasher in the next room. Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. the acceptable amount of noise can be described as the sound of a refrigerator or quiet conversation. There are some exceptions, such as train horns, emergency vehicles, construction activity and leaf blowers. Otherwise if the noise level exceeds these standards you should file a complaint. Please note, noise complaints must be made at the time of the loud noise. Complaints made after-the-fact can not be verified and therefore will not be investigated.

There are some exceptions, such as train horns, emergency vehicles, construction activity and leaf blowers.

Otherwise if the noise level exceeds these standards you should file a complaint. Please note, noise complaints must be made at the time of the loud noise. Complaints made after-the-fact can not be verified and therefore will not be investigated.

Depending on the type of noise and the time of day, noise complaints may be investigated by Broward Sherriff’s Organization (BSO), Code Compliance, or the Animal Control Division.

On this page common noise complaints are listed along with the staff or agency to contact

Please call the BSO nonemergency number at 954‐764‐4357 (HELP) for complaints about loud music, including radios and live music. The noise complaint must be made at the time you hear the loud noise.While an anonymous complaint will be investigated, you will be required to provide your name and contact information in order for BSO to prosecute the violator.

Loud Voices and Similar Disruptions

While loud voices can be very disruptive, it is very challenging for the City to prevent. When a complaint is received, Code Compliance or BSO will investigate and attempt to minimize future disturbances. Please call the City’s Code Compliance Division at (954)786-4361 for complaints about loud voices during the day. Please call the BSO nonemergency number at 954‐764‐4357 (HELP) for complaints about loud voices heard after 6:00 p.m. While an anonymous complaint will be investigated, you will be required to provide your name and contact information in order for BSO to prosecute the violator.

Barking Dogs

Please call the City’s Animal Control Division at 954-786-4027. You will be prompted to leave a voice mail message and the officer will call you back. They investigate complaints between 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (7 days a week). If you are experiencing a barking dog after these hours, you should still call the Animal Control Division at 954-786-4027 and they will discuss with you how they can assist. While an anonymous complaint will be investigated, you will be required to provide your name and contact information in order for the City to prosecute the violator.

House Alarms

Please call 911 because a business or residence may be having a fire or break-in.

Please call 911 because a car may be vandalized, stolen, or being broken into.

Construction activity is only allowed between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. Pile driving is only permitted between 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. If construction activity occurs outside of these hours, Please call the City’s Code Compliance Division at 954.786.4361. They will investigate the construction noise the following day.

Leaf blowers and Lawn Equipment

Lawn mowers, edgers, trimmers, blowers and power-driven hedge shears are only allowed to be operated between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. If activity occurs outside of these hours, Please call the City’s Code Compliance Division at 954.786.4361. They will investigate the lawn mowing activity the following day.

Get In Touch

100 West Atlantic Blvd. Pompano Beach, FL 33060 (954) 786-4600

City Hours

Mon. Thurs 7:00am. 6:00pm excluding holidays

What Time Can I Start Mowing? Noise Restriction Times

If you have a busy day planned and want to start mowing early, it’s important that you know your State’s noise restriction times – because the last thing you need on a 50 mowing job, is an abusive neighbour or a 1000 on-the-spot Council noise fine.

How is “noise” defined?

Noise can be defined “unwanted sound” – an objectionable measurement that can differ from person to person. What can be unbearable for one person may pass almost unnoticed by another. How annoyed we become depends on the loudness, time, place and frequency of the noise. Natural sounds in the environment are typically more tolerable than those made by humans, pets and power tool machinery.

How noisy is a lawn mower?

Different lawn mowers emit different levels of noise. Monash University found that the average lawn mower emits 87-94 decibels of noise.

In 2014, Briggs Stratten claimed they have invented the world’s quietest power mower – shaving up to 64% off standard mower noise. (Video below)

How does this compare to other noises?

This simple infographic helps to give a quick overview of how lawnmower noise compares to other common noises:

Typical Noise Levels. Source: WSJ.com

Can lawn mower noise be relaxing?

Apparently, yes! There are actually videos on YouTube that have been created as ‘lawn mower noise relaxation’ videos. This one has had 26,000 views!

What are the noise restriction rules?

Noise rules from lawn mowers, power tools and other regulated devices (usually those that could trigger noise complaints from neighbours) in residential areas vary from State to State. At the time of writing, lawn mower and power tool noise is only permitted between:

QLD 7am – 7pm Business day or Saturday 8am – 7pm Sunday and Public Holidays

NSW 7am – 8pm Any other day 8am – 8pm Sunday and Public Holidays

VIC 7am – 8pm Monday – Friday 9am – 8pm Saturday and Sunday

SA 8am – 8pm Any other day 9am – 8pm Sunday

TAS 7am – 6pm Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm Saturday 10am – 6pm Sunday

WA 7am – 7pm Monday – Saturday 9am – 7pm Sunday and Public Holidays With a 2 hour per day limit for hand held tools

NT 7am – 7pm Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm Sunday and Public Holidays

ACT 7am – 8pm Monday – Friday 8am – 8pm Sunday and Public Holidays

Disclaimer: This article is intended as a helpful guide to the basics. It is recommended that you contact your relevant local council for confirmation of times and fine amounts. The 1000 fine example was from the Gympie Regional Council in Queensland.

What happens if I break the rules?

For non-building complaints in residential areas, most local councils will issue a Direction Notice asking you to desist making noise outside of the permitted times. If you do not comply, you may receive an on-the-spot fine, or in severe cases be threatened with prosecution. Fine amounts vary across Australia, typically from 200 – 1000. Which far exceeds what you might have made if it was a cheap lawn mowing job.

So, unless you fancy abusive neighbours or council fines, it’s best to stick to the rules. It will make your life easier and it will make your customer’s life easier. Get your lawn mowed Make money mowing lawns

The World’s Quietest Power Mower?

Here is the 2014 Briggs Stratten lawnmower with the QPT™ push mower engine that claims to be the world’s quietest mower. See what you think?

Комментарии и мнения владельцев

Hi Jan! Thanks for joining in the conversation. What time do you usually prefer mow lawns over in SA? Reply

Your joking right 8 o clock is when my children wake up but no i have to put up with there bad moods because of neighbours consistantly waking them up we need to hurry up and make it 8. Reply

7am is to early for noise for us, 900am til 7 pm sounds fairer. I’m annoyed by lawn mower noise other noise I don’t mind like parties ?? Reply

Lawn mowing at 7am is a bit early for me too sometimes. As for Parties that go to 7am in the morning…. ahhhhh those were the days Reply

On New Year’s Eve (or hell for me) a few years ago a bunch of drunk teens decided to play unbelievably loud music at the soccer ground a couple of k’s from our house at 3am. To prove how lout it was to the cops we called at the local police station I brought out and promptly fired up our 97db Rockwell lawn mower at full throttle then went back inside. The lawn mower, which is normally deafening, could not even be heard a tiny bit above the music (again from a kilometre or two away) after I hung up the phone the yells of police officers could be heard and the music ceased. So maybe lawn mower noise isn’t as bad as everyone says it is :/ Reply

I’m with you James. As per my comment below, party goers are usually way more disruptive than a 30-60min mower. Reply

What’s your point here? Both are loud and doing one or the other at obscene hours is careless. Mowers should not be allowed until 10:00 am on Sundays, like in TAS! Some people enjoy the peaceful Sunday morning in bed with a lover. I have a neighbor who mows every Sunday morning. I’d blow up at him if it wasn’t such an obvious sign he was trying to drown out the low hum of his miserable marriage.

Normal mowing is not actually that much of an issue but it is the associated tasks that go hand in hand with the overall job. Wipper snipping against a metal panel fence and the likes of mulching are rather loud and such activities might be best limited to a little later in the day…Yes this is hard for those looking to make a dollar but could actually be used to a business advantage if they sought to carry out their work with the greater community in mind… For neighbours – well – its just rude… Reply

on weekends 7.30 to 6.00pm I like to listen to the news at 6 pm and have people mowing and wiper sniping and blower up to 7.30 on a hot day don’t want to lock up the house to stop noise. Reply

Someone who wants to mow lawns at 7am is crazy! Have respect for the shift workers! Only lawn mowing businesses would want to start mowing lawns at 7am! Reply

Quite simple i like to mow at 7am same as 8am sunday. I work on excavators during the week nice and early. Dont like it ah well Reply

Agreed, What about those of us usually start work at 6am and only have 1 day off a week, I suppose it doesnt matter if we dont have enough hours in the only day we have off to do our chores and hopefully get a little rest before back into another hetic week. How dare we be so inconsiderate. Reply

Im sure there is someone at home and im sure if your working 6 days a week you coupd afford someone to come do it for you. There are ways around it Reply

How about those of us in hospitality who work till 4am and are lucky to have a day of in a week Reply

Sorry but I work 6 days a week. I would like to have one day yo slee late and not be woken up to an early laen mower. Thats inconsiderate. Reply

Well Glenn you sound a like a bit of a selfish fucwit don’t you? MOST people like to sleep past 7am and 8am on a Sunday, but because YOU like to do it early everyone else should suffer your noise? People like you are the problem with society. I wish the worst. Reply

What a halfwit comment. I to have a stupid neighbour who likes to start mowing at 730am. I have digestive issues and most mornings am Cronic fatigue. Don’t need to wake up with the sound off that crap. Happy your not my neighbour Reply

Having been a shift worker for many years, I have come to accept unwanted noise as part of the territory. You can’t stop the world from functioning just because you decide to work the graveyard shift. That’s where headphones/earplugs came in handy for me. Besides that, anyone who has a regular 9-5 job should be used to getting up around 7am anyway. In my opinion 7 is quite acceptable for anyone wanting to mow a lawn (business or not) on any day except a Sunday morning. Reply

Oh, and for party’s not being as disruptive as a lawn mower – you have got to be kidding! Mowing a lawn usually takes about 1hr tops. Most people continue a party for 4 hours and the disruptive ones go on into the early hours of the morning. Loud music, people yelling and carrying on, and cars coming and going is far more annoying than the continuous hum of a mower. But I guess it’s may be based on YOUR lifestyle. If you are one of those loud-party type of people, you are probably oblivious to how much that upsets your neighbours. Reply

I live on an acreage on a rural residential property (6 acres). I am also retired now and in my mid sixties. With Queensland’s super hot climate in summer I would like to start mowing earlier than 7am (and remember 7am in Queensland is really 8am in the rest of the Eastern states in Summer). It is crazy for senior citizens to be out in the hottest part of the day mowing. And a question: Is the law different for people in rural residential areas where houses are widely separated? Farmers near me regularly are out on their tractors very early and it doesn’t bother me. Reply

If ur not already up by 7am ur a lazy bugga except if ur on shift WK. Why sleep ur life away…get up get active. Good on the noise. Birds r awake. U should b awake. Parties that go for too long r inconsiderate. That’s why they invented night clubs. Reply

So everyone just has to be the same automaton drone like you are or else they can get screwed? “U should be awake” …really? Wanna go around tell people when they should be sleeping? How bout this for a should: You SHOULD go get fcked. Reply

Hi Peter, not sure what the rules are in Texas. The times we put on our site are a guide for Australia only. Cheers. Reply

i think in south australiait should be 7am as that way you can get it done in the collest partof the day. then you have the rest of the dayto doyour shopping etc and also rest. i haveonce startede at 8;30 am just to fit three in in one day. how everr my neighbors just after theybrought the house were using their chainsaw at about 6am every day. we went away omn a holiday and when we came back they had no chainsaw. #suckedinstuipdidiots. i later found out that someone rang the cops andthe chainsaw was taken away and sold off due to them not caring. the person whom called the cops had asked themto not do it so early and that was ignored twiceso cops got invloved. myneighb0ors dont mind if i startearly as they knowim a busy chap usally juggling four to five once a month on the same weekend. as well as swimming.i may be tired but it makes me sleep well. Reply

I have a neighbor that mows his lawn twice a day and every day of the week. Mowed it Christmas Eve one year and I live in upstate NY. He mows at supper time and on Sunday at 1 pm when I am having dinner and trying to watch a game. He mows his lawn and the guy across the street. He is a jerk as far as I am concerned Reply

My neighbors use power tools at 830pm at night and I wake up for work at 530am.do they care? Of course not. It disturbs my sleep and causes stress to my dogs too Reply

who cares what people do on there own property maybe you would rather they never mowed at all just let everything just wildly grow just make sure to make the whole neighborhood look just lovely and instead turning up your TV and get some better Windows or having insulating walls and some solid wooden doors and some fans inside your house u can all complain some people work 7 days a week some people have kids some people like to sleep in some people work 1st shift some work 2nd shift and some work 3rd shift so there’s someone out there that would complain if the got a million dollars so stupid u should be able to mow at the point say your weather app in your city in your state on that morning on that day tells you when the sun rise time is cause its day light some people that works outdoors like to get in as much hours before noon and get off at a decent time and not have to work during the hottest part of the days and if you don’t like it then take it up with the city good luck Reply

8:30 pm in Melbourne on a Tuesday night and putting my young girls to bed and next door are mowing their grass Reply

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

What Time Can I Mow My Lawn? GreenSocks. […] jet craft and/or you’d like to watch a video of the world’s quietest power lawnmower, click here. Get your lawn…
10 Mistakes To Avoid When Starting a Lawn Mowing Business. […] Useful read: What time can I start mowing? Noise restriction times […]
Lawn Mowing Business FAQ. GreenSocks. […] What Time Can I Start Mowing? Noise Restriction Times […]

Sources:

https://www.manjimupmotors.com.au/blogs/entry/the-best-times-to-mow-your-lawn-climate-noise-restrictions-neighbours?format=amp
https://www.alexandriava.gov/Noise
https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/Torrance/html/Torrance04/Torrance0406.html
https://www.pompanobeachfl.gov/residents/resident-information/noise-complaints
https://greensocks.com.au/what-time-can-i-start-mowing-noise-restriction-times/

Lawn Mowers city, lawn, mower, noise, restrictions