Construction hours in New Castle County, DE — sometimes called construction noise rules or contractor work-hour ordinances — set when contractors can run power tools, hammers, and heavy equipment.
Construction and power equipment noise in New Castle County unincorporated areas is prohibited between 9 PM and 7 AM on weekdays and 10 PM–9 AM on weekends and legal holidays.
New Castle County Code §22.02.008 specifically addresses construction-related noise. Power equipment (saws, compressors, drills, etc.) may not be operated in residential districts during restricted hours: weekdays 9 PM–7 AM; weekends/holidays 10 PM–9 AM. Contractors requiring after-hours work may apply for a noise waiver through the Dept. of Land Use with 10 business days notice. Violation can also result in a stop-work order.
After-hours construction without a waiver is subject to misdemeanor penalties and stop-work orders.
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See how New Castle County's construction hours rules stack up against other locations.
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