Benton County, OR Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Daytime limit
- 70 decibels before 10:00 p.m.
- Nighttime limit
- 50 decibels after 10:00 p.m.
- Measurement
- A-scale sound level meter on affected property
- Hours near residences
- No gathering 12:01-9:00 a.m. within 1,000 feet
- Misdemeanor penalty
- Up to 30 days jail and/or $1,000 fine
Summary
At a permitted social gathering in unincorporated Benton County, amplified sound counts as interference once it exceeds 70 decibels before 10 p.m. and 50 decibels after 10 p.m., measured on affected property. The same section also restricts gathering hours near residences.
13.305 - Duration of Operation. (1)No social gathering shall be conducted in the unincorporated areas of Benton County within 1,000 feet of any residence between the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and in all other areas between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. If written consents from neighboring property owners and residents are submitted with the application, the Board may modify these hours in the permit. (2) ... A sound level in excess of 70 decibels prior to 10:00 p.m. and in excess of 50 decibels after 10:00 p.m. (as measured upon the A scale of a standard sound level meter on affected property) shall constitute interference.
Full Breakdown
305 sets both a time-of-day and a decibel standard for social gatherings, the permitted events of more than 300 people that Chapter 13 regulates outside the county's incorporated cities. , unless written consent from neighboring property owners and residents is submitted with the application, in which case the Board of Commissioners may modify the hours in the permit. , measured on the A scale of a standard sound level meter on the affected property, constitutes interference with a nearby school, church, residence or other permanent place of human habitation. , both enforceable as conditions of the county permit rather than as a general noise ordinance covering the whole county.
Violations & Fines
Sound above the 70/50-decibel thresholds, or a gathering operating outside its permitted hours, is a Chapter 13 violation. Under § 13.415 that is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both, with each day a separate offense, and the Sheriff may order the gathering to reduce sound levels or disperse under § 13.225 if the violation threatens public health, safety or welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the decibel limit for a social gathering in Benton County?
Are gathering hours also restricted near homes?
Does this decibel rule apply countywide or just to permitted events?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Benton County
Compare Benton County to another location·View the Oregon noise ordinances overview
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