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Pinellas County, FL Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)

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

Key Facts

Governing section
Sec. 58-449(b)
Named equipment
Pumps, well tips, generators
Shielding required
During 11 p.m.-7 a.m. quiet hours
Exemption
Under 55 dBA unshielded

Summary

Generators and similar equipment that must run around the clock near homes in Pinellas County need an acoustical enclosure during quiet hours unless they stay under 55 dBA, per Sec. 58-449(b).

City-specific rules exist: St. Petersburg has its own generator noise rules that differ from Pinellas County's county-level regulations. If you live in St. Petersburg, check the city-specific page instead.

Construction equipment that must be operated near a residentially zoned area on a 24-hour per day basis (i.e., pumps, well tips, generators, etc.) must be shielded by an acoustical enclosure during quiet hours unless the unshielded noise level is less than 55 dBA, measured at the closest adjacent residentially zoned property line.(c)Notwithstanding the above, the erection, excavating, demolition, alteration, or repair of any building between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., Monday through Saturday, and all day Sunday, constitutes loud and raucous noise and is prohibited except in case of urgent necessity in the interest of public health and safety, and if permitted by the Housing Official. (Ord. No. 03-3, § 1, 1-7-03; Ord. No. 25-17, § 2, 9-22-25)

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 124).

Full Breakdown

Sec. 58-449(b) singles out construction equipment that must operate near a residentially zoned area on a 24-hour basis, pumps, well tips, generators and similar gear, requiring it be shielded by an acoustical enclosure during quiet hours (11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) unless the unshielded noise level measures below 55 dBA at the closest adjacent residentially zoned property line.

Violations & Fines

Running an unshielded generator over 55 dBA during quiet hours is punishable under Sec. 1-8: up to a $500 fine, each day a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do generators near homes need soundproofing in Pinellas County?
Only during quiet hours (11 p.m.-7 a.m.), and only if unshielded noise exceeds 55 dBA at the nearest residential property line, per Sec. 58-449(b).
What counts as 24-hour equipment under this rule?
Sec. 58-449(b) names pumps, well tips and generators as examples of equipment that must run continuously near residential zones.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Pinellas County

All Pinellas County rules

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