Littleton's Noise Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles noise ordinances a little differently. In Littleton, Colorado, there are 3 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.

Construction Hours

Littleton regulates construction noise through Title 7, Chapter 3 and Colorado state law CRS Section 25-12-103. Construction projects are subject to industrial-zone noise limits for the duration of valid construction permits. Waste disposal and refuse collection are prohibited between 7 PM and 7 AM.

Key details: Daytime: 7 AM–7 PM (industrial limits). Refuse/Loading: Prohibited 7 PM–7 AM. Truck Loading: No 10 PM–7 AM near res.. Code: Title 7, Ch. 3, Sec. 7-3-5.

Noise ordinance violation: municipal citation and fine. Operating refuse equipment during restricted hours: separate violation.

Barking Dogs

Littleton regulates barking dogs under Title 6, Chapter 2 (Dogs and Cats) and the general noise ordinance (Title 7, Ch. 3). Persistent barking that disturbs the peace qualifies as unnecessary noise. Animal Control handles complaints through the Littleton Police Department.

Key details: Enforcement: Littleton Police/Animal Control. Standard: Incessant barking = violation. Phone: 303-794-1551. Code: Title 6, Ch. 2; Title 7, Ch. 3.

Nuisance barking: municipal citation with fines. Dogs at large: impoundment and owner fines. Repeat offenses may result in escalating penalties.

Quiet Hours

Littleton City Code Title 7, Chapter 3 (Noise Control, Sections 7-3-1 through 7-3-13) regulates sound levels citywide. Residential district limits are 55 dB daytime and 50 dB nighttime, with the nighttime period beginning at 7 PM. Business districts allow 60 dB daytime and 55 dB nighttime.

Key details: Residential Day: 55 dB (7 AM–7 PM). Residential Night: 50 dB (7 PM–7 AM). Business Day: 60 dB (7 AM–7 PM). Code: Title 7, Ch. 3.

Violation of Littleton's noise ordinance is a municipal offense subject to fines. State CRS Section 18-9-106 (disturbing the peace) is a Class 1 petty offense with fines up to $500.

The Bottom Line

Littleton'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 Littleton is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Littleton can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.