Billings, MT Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)

It is unlawful for any person willfully to make or continue to make, or cause to be made or continued, any loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise which disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood or which causes discomfort or annoyance to any reasonable person of normal sensitivity residing in the area. The standards which shall be considered in determining whether a violation of the provisions of this section exists shall include the following:

(1)The volume of noise;(2)The intensity of the noise;(3)Whether the nature of the noise is usual or unusual;(4)Whether the noise is produced by a commercial or noncommercial activity;(5)The volume and intensity of the background noise, if any;(6)The proximity of the noise to residential sleeping facilities;(7)The nature and zoning of the area within which the noise emanates;(8)The density of the inhabitation of the area within which the noise emanates;(9)The time of the day or night the noise occurs;(10)The duration of the noise;(11)Whether the noise is recurrent, intermittent or constant; and(12)The public benefit derived from the source of the noise. (Ord. No. 13-5603, § 1, 5-28-13)

Sec. 17-103. - Noise limitations. (a)The permissible noise exposure limits from non-exempt noise sources in residential, commercial and industrial districts are as provided in Table 1 below.(b)At boundaries between zones, the lower of the dB(A) level shall be applicable. Table 1—Limitations

Maximum Permissible Noise Limits Zone Day