CMC Section 909-3 sets maximum sound levels by zoning district and day of week, measured as Leq dB(A) over six-minute periods. Three tables cover Sun-Wed, Thursday, and Fri-Sat schedules.
Section 909-3 of the Cincinnati Municipal Code establishes quantitative sound level limits. Maximum permissible levels are specified in three tables: Table 1 covers Sunday through Wednesday, Table 2 covers Thursday, and Table 3 covers Friday through Saturday. Sound is measured as Leq dB(A) using ANSI S1.4-compliant Type 1 or Type 2 sound level meters with A-weighting and slow response over a minimum six-minute measurement period. Readings are taken at the receiving property within the applicable zoning district. Exceeding the table values constitutes prima facie evidence of a violation. Section 909-1 defines key terms including decibel (a unit for measuring sound intensity), Leq (equivalent continuous sound level), and A-weighted sound level. Different zoning districts (residential, commercial, industrial) have different maximum levels, with residential districts having the lowest thresholds. Enforcement is conducted by designated members of the Buildings and Inspections Department and the Cincinnati Police Department.
Exceeding table limits is prima facie evidence of a noise violation under Section 909-3. First offense is a minor misdemeanor. Three or more violations within one year constitute a fourth-degree misdemeanor. Contact Cincinnati 311 at (513) 591-6000 to report violations.
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