Arvada, CO Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Section 38-91 opens Division 3 of the noise chapter, 'Community Noise Levels,' and sets the numeric backbone behind the conduct-based rules in Division 2. It bars operating any stationary noise source above the Table I sound-pressure limit for more than 90 percent of any measurement period, with the measurement window never shorter than ten minutes, taken at the property boundary or anywhere on the affected property. ): residential and mixed-use districts at 55 dB(A) by day and 50 dB(A) by night, commercial districts at 60/55 dB(A), light industrial at 70/65 dB(A), and heavy industrial at 75 dB(A) around the clock.

A planned unit development is measured against the table entry matching its predominant land use as set in the PUD plan. The following sections adjust how a reading is taken: Section 38-94 allows a correction for the duration of an intermittent noise, and Section 38-95 allows a correction for tonal or impulsive character, either of which can push a borderline reading over the limit even if the raw average would pass. Section 38-96 exempts organized school-band practices and performances. Because Division 3 sets its own numeric standard rather than relying on the conduct language in Section 38-62, code enforcement or police can cite a stationary source, such as a rooftop HVAC unit, generator, or outdoor speaker, purely on a measured reading that exceeds the applicable district limit for more than 90 percent of the sampling period.