Salem's Noise Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles noise ordinances a little differently. In Salem, Oregon, there are 5 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.

Leaf Blower Rules

Salem prohibits operating domestic power equipment — including gas and electric leaf blowers — between 10 PM and 7 AM under SRC Chapter 93. Oregon state law blocks cities from banning gas-powered equipment outright, so Salem regulates leaf blowers through time and nuisance noise limits only.

Key details: Prohibited hours: 10 PM – 7 AM daily. Gas leaf blower ban: None (state preemption). Noise standard: No audible disturbance beyond property. Governing code: SRC § 93.010, Ch. 93. Enforced by: Salem Police / code compliance.

SRC § 93.010 violations are misdemeanors; fines typically $100–$500 per incident with possible escalation for repeat violations.

Amplified Music & Events

Salem Revised Code Chapter 93 prohibits operating sound-amplifying devices — including musical instruments, radios, and speakers — when plainly audible inside another dwelling unit between 10 PM and 7 AM. Outdoor events with amplified sound may require an Event Sound Permit under SRC Chapter 51.

Key details: Quiet hours: 10 PM – 7 AM. Standard: Plainly audible in another dwelling. Permit option: Event Sound Permit (Ch. 51). Enforcement: Salem Police Department.

Violation is a Class A infraction under SRC §93.990, with fines up to $500 per offense; repeat violations may escalate to misdemeanor charges.

Construction Hours

Salem regulates construction noise through SRC Chapter 93 and building permit conditions. Government construction activities are exempt from the noise ordinance. Private construction near residential areas should follow reasonable hours.

Key details: Typical Hours: 7 AM – 7 PM weekdays. Weekend Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM. Government Exempt: Yes — per SRC Chapter 93. State Standards: Oregon DEQ noise rules also apply.

Construction noise complaints are investigated by code enforcement. Violations may result in citations or modifications to permit conditions.

Barking Dogs

Salem addresses barking dogs through its noise ordinance and animal control regulations. Persistent barking that creates a noise disturbance is a violation. Salem Animal Control handles complaints.

Key details: Code Section: SRC Chapter 93 / Animal Control. Enforcement: Salem Animal Control. Documentation: Record dates, times, duration. Process: Notice first, then citations.

Owners receive notices followed by citations. Repeated violations result in escalating fines and potential animal control orders.

Quiet Hours

Salem Revised Code Chapter 93 regulates noise and prohibits noise disturbances. The ordinance restricts unreasonable noise that disturbs the peace, with stricter standards during nighttime hours.

Key details: Code Section: SRC Chapter 93. Standard: No noise disturbances to reasonable person. Exemptions: Government maintenance, permitted activities. Enforcement: Salem Police Department.

Noise violations are subject to citations and fines under Salem's code enforcement. Repeat offenses may result in escalating penalties.

The Bottom Line

Salem'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 Salem is broadly strict or permissive.

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