Fort Lauderdale, FL Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Section 27-235 of the Broward County Code sets objective sound level limits measured at or within the real property line of the receiving (complainant) property. L50 represents the sound level exceeded 50 percent of the measurement period (statistical median); Lmax is the instantaneous peak. The tiered residential, commercial, and industrial limits apply at all times with no separate daytime or nighttime thresholds, which is unusual among Florida counties. Section 27-235(c) provides that a sound source is not in violation when its level exceeds ambient background by less than 5 dBA, giving quiet rural neighborhoods effectively lower thresholds but protecting existing noisy environments. Measurement must be taken with a Type 1 or Type 2 sound level meter (ANSI S1.4) by a trained officer. Broward County Code Compliance handles enforcement in unincorporated areas, while municipalities such as Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pembroke Pines enforce their own codes within city limits. The ordinance has been upheld in Florida courts as a valid exercise of police power.