Coral Gables, FL Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Commercial/industrial cap
- 65 dBA at property line
- Above-ambient limit
- 5-10 dBA over ambient
- Outdoor equipment buffer
- 100 feet from residential
- First response
- Verbal warning, then fines
- Noise fine range
- $150-$500 per day
Summary
Coral Gables caps steady mechanical noise, air conditioners, exhaust fans, pumps, at 65 dBA above ambient in commercial and industrial zones, tighter overnight, and bars commercial outdoor equipment near homes outside set daytime hours.
The use of an air conditioner, electric motor, pool pump, exhaust fan, filter, or similar noise-producing mechanical equipment which creates a noise that exceeds the following sound levels: ... All Other Districts ... 5 dBA above ambient sound level or maximum of 65 dBA ... 10 dBA above ambient sound level or maximum of 65 dBA. The sound levels in Table 1 above shall be measured from the real property line of the sound-affected site or unit, and the zoning district where the sound-affected site or unit is located shall apply.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Fee Schedule: Supplement 2 | Zoning Code: Supplement 1 | Code of Ordinances: Supplement 25 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City Code Sec. 34-169(13) sets a numeric ceiling for steady mechanical noise (air conditioners, electric motors, pool pumps, exhaust fans, filters) in commercial and industrial areas, classified as "All Other Districts": 5 dBA above ambient sound level or 65 dBA max overnight (11 p.m.-7:30/9 a.m.), and 10 dBA above ambient or 65 dBA max at other times, measured at the real property line of the complaining site. Separately, Sec. 34-169(11) bars a commercial entity or business from running outdoor maintenance equipment within 100 feet of a residential area outside set weekday, weekend, and holiday hours. Police or code enforcement issue a verbal warning first under Sec. 34-172, then fines for continued violations.
Violations & Fines
A verbal warning to fix the noise immediately comes first; continued violations bring fines under Sec. 1-7, with irreparable or repeat violations referred to the code enforcement board or special magistrate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Coral Gables limit noise from commercial AC or exhaust equipment?
Can a business run outdoor maintenance equipment near homes at night?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Coral Gables
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Coral Gables to another location·View the Florida noise ordinances overview
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