Dearborn Heights, MI Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Section 36-341(2) of the zoning ordinance treats any sound that exceeds Table A's limits as a prohibited 'noise disturbance,' measured with an A-weighted sound level meter at or within the property boundary of the receiving zoning district, not the source's own lot. Pure-tone sounds, those heard as a single steady pitch, and impulsive or impact-type sounds such as drop-forge impacts or gunfire each get the applicable Table A limit reduced by an additional 5 dB(A) when the receiving district is residential or commercial-noise sensitive. The section separately restricts loading, unloading, and construction noise: loading and unloading of boxes, containers, or building materials that crosses a residential boundary is barred between 8:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., and construction, drilling, or demolition equipment cannot run between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays or at any time on Sundays and holidays, except for emergency utility work.

Noise-sensitive zones, posted areas around schools, libraries, churches, hospitals, and nursing homes, bar disruptive sound even below Table A's numeric threshold. Listed exceptions cover snow plowing and street sweeping, agricultural uses, church bells and chimes, lawn care between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., licensed vehicles on public roads, and trains or aircraft while grounded. A property owner who cannot meet the limit may apply to the zoning board of appeals for a variance, submitting a background sound study and a projected boundary-line reading; the board may grant relief only if strict compliance would create unnecessary hardship without threatening public health, safety, or welfare, and it can attach operating conditions.

The Building and Engineering Department investigates complaints, can demand technical data from the operator, and issues a written notice of violation; failure to comply can void permits tied to the use.