Denver, CO Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Testing noise limit
- 88 dB(A) at 25 ft or property line
- Allowed testing hours
- 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Testing frequency cap
- 1 hr/week or 2 hrs/6 weeks
- Covered facilities
- hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, fire-dept-required sites
- Enforcing agency
- Dept. of Public Health & Environment
Summary
Denver limits routine testing of emergency backup generators to 88 dB(A) measured at 25 feet or the property line, confined to 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and capped at one hour per week or two hours per six weeks.
The sound pressure level emitted during the routine testing of emergency electrical power generators shall not exceed eighty-eight (88) dB(A) at a distance of twenty-five (25) feet or a receptor premises' property line, whichever is greater. Routine testing shall not exceed one (1) hour in any one-week period, or two (2) hours in any six-week period and shall be confined to the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or as otherwise approved.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 147 Update 3).
Full Breakdown
Denver's noise code (DRMC ch. 36) generally caps sound crossing a property line under Table A, but emergency power generators at hospitals, health clinics, nursing homes and similar facilities, or anywhere the Denver Fire Department requires one, get a specific carve-out for routine testing instead of the standard table. That testing may not exceed 88 dB(A) measured at 25 feet or the receptor premises' property line, whichever distance is greater, must total no more than one hour in any one-week period (or two hours in any six-week period), and is confined to 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. unless the executive director approves other hours.
Violations & Fines
Violating Chapter 36 is a general-penalty offense under DRMC § 1-13: up to a $999 fine, up to 300 days in jail, or both, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I test my backup generator any time in Denver?
Does the 88 dB(A) generator limit apply to any generator?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denver
Compare Denver to another location·View the Colorado noise from specific sources overview
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