Allentown, PA Noise Ordinances: Construction Hours (2026)
Construction hours in Allentown, PA, sometimes called construction noise rules or contractor work-hour ordinances, set when contractors can run power tools, hammers, and heavy equipment.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Allentown Art. 710.03(E)(1)
- Prohibited hours
- 9 P.M.-7 A.M. weekdays/Saturdays; all day Sundays/holidays
- Permitted-hours dBA cap
- 85 dB(A) at the property boundary
- Domestic power tools
- Art. 710.03(C)(9): banned 9 P.M.-7 A.M. (snow blowers exempt)
- Variance authority
- Section 710.05(B) (Hearing Board)
Summary
Article 710.03(E)(1) bars construction, drilling, and demolition tools between 9:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M. on weekdays and Saturdays, and at any time on Sundays or holidays, where the noise crosses a residential property boundary. At permitted times, no source may exceed 85 dBA at the boundary without a variance.
1. Construction. Operating or permitting the operation of any tools or equipment used in construction, drilling, or demolition work: a. Between the hours of 9:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M. the following day on weekdays and Saturdays or at any time on Sundays or holidays, such that the sound therefrom creates a noise disturbance across a residential real property boundary, except for emergency work. b. At any other time such that the sound level at or across a real property boundary exceeds 85 dB(A) unless a variance is obtained pursuant to Section 710.05(B). c. This section shall not apply to the use of domestic power tools subject to Section 710.03(C)(9).
Full Breakdown
03(E)(1) of the Noise Control ordinance (Chapter 400). 01 as erection, repair, renovation, demolition or removal of any building or structure and related excavation, filling, grading and lot regulation. (snow blowers exempt). 05(B).
Violations & Fines
$100 violation ticket per offense (Article 710.99(A)(7)); summary conviction fine $100 to $1,000 and/or up to 90 days (710.99(A)(9)). Each day may be a separate offense; the Bureau of Health or Police may also issue an abatement order under 710.99(B).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can contractors work on Sunday in Allentown?
Is there a decibel cap during permitted daytime hours?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Allentown
How Allentown compares: Cities with the Strictest Construction Hours·Compare Allentown to another location·View the Pennsylvania noise ordinances overview
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