ROA 1994 Chapter 9-9 sets tiered decibel limits by zoning district and time of day, with residential areas capped at 55 dB(A) nighttime and 65 dB(A) daytime.
The General Noise Control Ordinance establishes the following receiving-property decibel limits: residential zones 65 dB(A) day (7 AM-10 PM) and 55 dB(A) night; mixed-use and commercial 70 dB(A) day and 60 dB(A) night; industrial 75 dB(A) all hours. Measurements are taken with an ANSI Type 2 sound level meter at the nearest property line of the affected receiver. The city uses a 10-minute L-eq measurement protocol for steady noise and instantaneous L-max readings for intermittent sources. At Albuquerque's 5,300-foot elevation, the thinner atmosphere can affect sound propagation, but enforcement thresholds do not adjust for elevation. Complaints are routed through ABQ 311 to Environmental Health, which dispatches noise inspectors during business hours and relies on APD for after-hours response.
First offense civil fine of $100-$300. Second offense within 12 months $300-$500. Third and subsequent offenses up to $1,000 per day. Commercial repeat violators face business license review.
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