Construction hours in Bethlehem, PA — sometimes called construction noise rules or contractor work-hour ordinances — set when contractors can run power tools, hammers, and heavy equipment.
Bethlehem prohibits operating any tools or equipment used in construction, drilling or demolition work between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. under Section 717.01(b)(5). Work outside that window requires a special permit from the Community and Economic Development Director or designee. No weekend exception applies.
Bethlehem's construction-hours rule is codified at Section 717.01(b)(5) of Article 717. It is structured as an exception to the Section 717.01(a) nuisance ban: construction, drilling and demolition tools and equipment are exempt provided work does not occur between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., unless a special permit is obtained from the Community and Economic Development Director or designated representative. The ordinance does not distinguish weekdays, weekends, or holidays — the 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. envelope applies every day. Off-hours pours, paving, or utility tie-ins require the special permit in advance.
Operating construction tools between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. without a special permit forfeits the Section 717.01(b)(5) exemption. Section 717.99 penalties: $50-$100 first, $100-$300 second, $500 or 30 days imprisonment or both for third and each subsequent offense.
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