Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Huntsville

Huntsville, AL Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)

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

Key Facts

Residential limit
55 dB(A) day / 50 dB(A) night
Commercial limit
62 dB(A) at all times
Industrial limit
70 dB(A) at all times
Measured
At the property line
Enforced by
City noise control officer

Summary

Portable and standby generators in Huntsville must stay within the city's decibel limits, 55 dB(A) by day and 50 dB(A) at night in residential areas, measured at the property line.

No person shall operate, cause to be operated or generate any source of sound in such a manner as to create a sound level which exceeds the following limits when measured at or within the property line of the receiving land use: Residential, public space open space, agricultural, institutional property 7:00 a.m.—10:00 p.m. 55; 10:00 p.m.—7:00 a.m. 50. Commercial or business At all times 62. Industrial At all times 70.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 30 Update 2).

Full Breakdown

Huntsville's Code doesn't single out generators, so a running generator falls under the citywide sound-level cap in Sec. 12-265: no source of sound may exceed 55 dB(A) at a residential property line from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., dropping to 50 dB(A) overnight; commercial land tops out at 62 dB(A) and industrial at 70 dB(A), measured at all times. Generators don't qualify for the 'domestic power equipment' exemption in Sec. 12-262(5), which covers only equipment used for home/building repairs and grounds maintenance. A hardship waiver can be requested from the noise control officer under Sec. 12-234.

Violations & Fines

Violating the noise ordinance is a misdemeanor under the Code's general penalty (Sec. 1-7): up to a $500 fine, six months in jail, or both, with each day a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run a generator during a power outage in Huntsville?
Yes, but it still can't exceed 55 dB(A) at your property line by day (50 dB(A) at night) under Sec. 12-265; a hardship waiver is available from the noise control officer if needed.
Is there a specific decibel limit just for generators?
No. Generators are treated like any other sound source under Sec. 12-265's citywide limits: there's no separate generator rule, and generators don't qualify for the domestic power equipment exemption.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Huntsville

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Dog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsCar Alarm LimitsSome RestrictionsDelivery Truck NoiseSome RestrictionsHVAC & Mechanical NoiseSome RestrictionsBar & Nightclub NoiseSignificant RestrictionsLow-Frequency Bass LimitsSignificant RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSome Restrictions

All Huntsville rules

Compare Huntsville to another location·View the Alabama noise from specific sources overview

Get notified when Generator Noise in Huntsville, AL changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.