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Pittsburgh, PA Noise from Specific Sources: Bar & Nightclub Noise (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Amplified noise limit
75 dB(A) at residential property line
Day vs. night
same 75 dB(A) cap both periods
Unamplified noise nighttime cap
55 dB(A) after 10 p.m.
Maximum fine
$300 plus up to 30 days jail
Governing code
Pittsburgh Code § 601.04, Title 6 Conduct

Summary

Pittsburgh caps amplified noise from bars and nightclubs at 75 dB(A) where it crosses into a residential property, day or night, under the city's Amplified Noise standard in the Conduct Code.

Amplified Noise. No person shall transmit or cause to be transmitted any noise created by loudspeaker(s), audio amplification device(s), or other similar devices which leaves the premises from which it originates, and enters any residential property or premises in a residential zoning district... In excess of the noise levels specified below in Table B... Daytime: 75 dB(A) or 3 above background sound level, whichever is greater. Nighttime: 75 dB(A) or 3 above background sound level, whichever is greater.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Pittsburgh's noise ordinance (Pittsburgh Code § 601.04) sets a single amplified-noise limit for bars, nightclubs, and any other source using loudspeakers or audio equipment: sound crossing into a residential property or residential zoning district cannot exceed 75 dB(A), or 3 dB(A) above the background level, whichever is greater, at any hour, day or night (Table B). That's actually a looser nighttime limit than unamplified noise, which drops to 55 dB(A) after 10 p.m. under Table A. Measurements are taken at the receiving property line. A first violation carries a fine up to $300 and up to 30 days in jail, and the noise is independently declared a public nuisance subject to abatement.

Violations & Fines

First offense: fine up to $300 plus costs, or up to 30 days in jail for nonpayment; each violation is also a declared public nuisance subject to immediate abatement under § 601.04(i).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Pittsburgh have a separate noise law just for bars and nightclubs?
No. Bars and nightclubs fall under the city's general Amplified Noise rule, Pittsburgh Code § 601.04(c)(2), capping sound from loudspeakers or audio equipment at 75 dB(A) at a residential property line.
Is the amplified-noise limit lower at night for venues?
No. Table B sets 75 dB(A) (or 3 dB(A) above background) for both day and night: unlike the unamplified-noise standard, which drops to 55 dB(A) after 10 p.m.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Pittsburgh

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsHVAC & Mechanical NoiseSome RestrictionsGenerator NoiseSome RestrictionsDelivery Truck NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSome Restrictions

All Pittsburgh rules

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