Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)

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

Key Facts

Daytime limit
65 dB(A) or 3 above background
Nighttime limit
55 dB(A), 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
Audibility test
audible from 75 feet violates
Max fine
$300 plus costs per offense
Governing code
Pittsburgh Code § 601.04(c)(1)

Summary

Pittsburgh caps unamplified noise, including AC compressors and HVAC condensers, that crosses onto a neighbor's residential property at 65 dB(A) by day and 55 dB(A) at night, or noise audible from 75 feet.

No person shall transmit or cause to be transmitted any unamplified noise, which leaves the premises from which it originates, and enters any residential property or premises in a residential zoning district: In excess of the noise levels specified below in Table A; or Noise that is clearly audible from a distance of seventy-five (75) feet. ... Daytime: 65 dB(A) or 3 above background sound level, whichever is greater. Nighttime: 55 dB(A) or 3 above background sound level, whichever is greater.

View official code

Full Breakdown

City Code § 601.04(c)(1) bars transmitting unamplified noise that leaves your premises and enters a residential property or residential zoning district above 65 dB(A) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., or 55 dB(A) between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., using Table A, or noise clearly audible from 75 feet, whichever is stricter. HVAC condensers and window AC units fall under "unamplified noise" since no exemption in the section names them. Measurements are taken at the receiving property line, 25 feet or more from the source, with a Type 1 or 2 sound level meter.

Violations & Fines

Fine up to $300 plus costs per offense, with up to 30 days in jail for nonpayment. A violation is also declared a public nuisance, opening the door to Chapter 670 disruptive-property abatement against repeat offenders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Pittsburgh's noise ordinance cover a neighbor's AC or HVAC unit?
Yes. § 601.04(c)(1) treats it as unamplified noise: if it crosses onto a residential lot above 65 dB(A) daytime or 55 dB(A) nighttime, it violates the ordinance.
How is HVAC noise measured for a complaint?
At the receiving property line, 25 feet or more from the unit, using a Type 1 or 2 sound level meter, per § 601.04(c)(3).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Pittsburgh

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsGenerator NoiseSome RestrictionsBar & Nightclub NoiseSome RestrictionsDelivery Truck NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSome Restrictions

All Pittsburgh rules

Compare Pittsburgh to another location·View the Pennsylvania noise from specific sources overview

Get notified when HVAC & Mechanical Noise in Pittsburgh, PA 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.