Cook County noise enforcement under Chapter 30, Article V uses a reasonableness standard. Illinois EPA Title 35, Part 901 sets statewide decibel limits: 61 dBA daytime and 51 dBA nighttime for residential areas (Class A land).
Cook County Code Chapter 30, Article V uses a general reasonableness standard for noise in unincorporated areas. Illinois EPA regulations (Title 35 IAC Part 901) provide specific decibel limits statewide: Class A land (residential) is limited to 61 dBA daytime (7 AMβ10 PM) and 51 dBA nighttime (10 PMβ7 AM) from Class C sources. Class B land (commercial) allows 66 dBA day and 56 dBA night. These state standards supplement county enforcement. Measurements are taken at the property line of the receiving land. Octave band analysis may be required for specific frequency complaints. Illinois Pollution Control Board handles appeals.
County noise violation: $100β$1,000 fine. State IEPA violation: enforcement through Illinois Pollution Control Board. Each day constitutes a separate offense.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle decibel limits.
See how Chicago's decibel limits rules stack up against other locations.
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