Bloomington's Noise Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles noise ordinances a little differently. In Bloomington, Minnesota, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Aircraft Noise

Bloomington is heavily impacted by MSP International Airport. The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) manages noise abatement. MN §473.192 requires acoustic construction standards in airport noise zones. Bloomington is party to a noise mitigation agreement with MAC alongside Minneapolis, Richfield, and Eagan.

Key details: Airport: MSP International (adjacent). State Law: MN §473.192. Noise Complaints: MAC hotline 612-726-9411. Construction Standard: Acoustic attenuation required in noise zones.

New construction without required sound insulation in airport zones carries stop-work orders and fines of $500–$2,000. Failure to provide real estate noise disclosure results in liability for rescission of sale.

This is one of the stricter rules in Bloomington's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Barking Dogs

Bloomington City Code §12.99 prohibits animal noise that can be heard outside the building or premises and occurs repeatedly over at least 14 minutes at an average of 12 or more noises per minute. Lifetime animal license ($25) required for all dogs.

Key details: Threshold: 12+ noises/min over 14 min. City Code: §12.99. Dog License: $25 lifetime fee. Animal Control: 952-563-4942.

Warning first. Nuisance finding: $100 to $500. Daily fines for non-compliance. Court-ordered remediation possible.

Quiet Hours

Bloomington enforces quiet hours 10 PM–7 AM weekdays and 9 PM–9 AM weekends. Power equipment including lawn mowers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, and snow blowers prohibited during quiet hours. City Code §10.30 prohibits any loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise likely to disturb a reasonable person.

Key details: Weekday Quiet Hours: 10 PM–7 AM. Weekend Quiet Hours: 9 PM–9 AM. City Code: §10.29.02 and §10.30. Exception Permit: Type I via Environmental Health.

Violations of §10.30 are misdemeanors. Repeat offenders subject to escalating enforcement.

Construction Hours

Construction with power equipment allowed weekdays 7 AM–10 PM and Saturdays 9 AM–9 PM. No construction permitted on Sundays. Bloomington City Code §10.29.02 governs all construction noise including electric, diesel, and gas-powered machines.

Key details: Weekdays: 7 AM–10 PM. Saturdays: 9 AM–9 PM. Sundays: No construction. City Code: §10.29.02.

First offense: $200 typical. Stop-work orders for egregious violations. Repeat: up to $1,000.

The Bottom Line

Bloomington's noise ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Bloomington is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Bloomington's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.