DRMC chapter 36 (Noise) limits construction equipment to 80 dBA measured at the receiving property line during permitted hours. Construction is banned 9 PM-7 AM weekdays and 9 PM-8 AM weekends except for emergency repair or DOTI special permit.
Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) enforces DRMC chapter 36 noise limits. Construction equipment is held to an 80 dBA limit (slow A-weighted) at the receiving property line during allowed hours of 7 AM-9 PM weekdays and 8 AM-9 PM Saturdays/Sundays/holidays. Outside those hours the lower residential zone limits apply (55 dBA day / 50 dBA night). Permitted operations for highway, utility, transit, or emergency work may receive a noise variance from DDPHE under §36-9. Equipment must use functional mufflers, and impact pile drivers are restricted further. Building Department permits include a noise plan for downtown high-rise work. Denver Office of Special Events coordinates large-scale demolition.
Exceeding DRMC 36 limits is a civil infraction with fines $150 first offense, $500 second, $999 third within a year. Repeat violators may have building permits suspended. Variances obtained by misrepresentation may be revoked and re-issued under penalty.
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