Scranton, PA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Events (2026)

Scranton's amplified-music framework is unusually detailed for a city of its size. Section 317-7(A)(1) reaches radios, televisions, phonographs, sound amplifiers, automobile stereos, portable stereos and digital devices through four separate hooks: (a) noise disturbance across a real property boundary at any time; (b) operating from inside a motor vehicle on a public right-of-way so as to cause a disturbance across any property boundary; (c) operating on a common carrier in a way that disturbs another passenger; and (d) audible from 40 feet in any public area, street or sidewalk. Section 317-7(A)(4) prohibits loudspeakers and PA systems that create a noise disturbance across a real property boundary. Section 317-7(A)(10) caps outdoor concerts, block parties, church carnivals and similar performances at 85 dB(A) unless a noise control exception is issued by the Noise Control Officer (the Zoning Enforcement Officer). Section 317-7(A)(14) caps places of public entertainment at 90 dB(A) (slow-response, at any customer location) UNLESS a conspicuous warning sign is posted near each public entrance stating 'WARNING: SOUND LEVELS WITHIN MAY CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING IMPAIRMENT!' - a workaround that effectively lets clubs operate above 90 dB(A) with proper signage. Section 317-7(A)(5) reaches sound trucks. Section 317-7(A)(8) restricts street sales by shouting or outcry to 7:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Noncommercial public speaking and public assembly activities are exempt under Section 317-7(A), the content-neutrality safeguard required by Reed v. Town of Gilbert, 576 U.S. 155 (2015) and Ward v. Rock Against Racism, 491 U.S. 781 (1989). State backstop: 18 Pa.C.S. Section 5503(a)(2) (disorderly conduct - unreasonable noise).