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Grand Rapids, MI Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Residential screening: 61 dB(A)
Commercial screening: 66 dB(A)
Measurement point: 125 ft or zone boundary
Vibration setback: 300 ft for intense vibrations

Summary

Special land uses in Grand Rapids's SD-IT Industrial-Transportation districts get higher decibel allowances, up to 66 dB(A) at commercial boundaries, measured at 125 feet or the zone line.

For Special Land Uses within SD-IT Industrial-Transportation Districts, at no point either on the boundary of a Residential or Commercial Zone District, or at one hundred twenty-five (125) feet from the nearest property line of a plant or operation, whichever distance is greater, shall the sound pressure level of any individual operation or plant... exceed the decibel levels in the designated octave bands shown below for the zoning districts indicated... For monitoring purposes the A scale levels (slow response) of 61 dB(A) and 66 dB(A), respectively, for Residential and Commercial Zone Districts may be used.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 70).

Full Breakdown

Section 9.65(2) sets a separate, higher decibel table for Special Land Uses within SD-IT Industrial-Transportation Districts, measured at the Residential or Commercial Zone District boundary or 125 feet from the plant's property line, whichever is farther. Screening levels of 61 dB(A) (residential) and 66 dB(A) (commercial) apply before the full octave-band test kicks in. Section 9.65(7) separately requires uses creating intense vibrations, such as drop forges, to set back at least 300 feet from a Residential or Commercial Zone District line unless vibrations are controlled so they are imperceptible beyond it.

Violations & Fines

Municipal civil infraction under Chapter 170; repeat Section 9.65 violations within six months become a misdemeanor up to $500 and 90 days in jail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do industrial zones get looser noise limits in Grand Rapids?

Yes, for Special Land Uses in SD-IT Industrial-Transportation Districts. Section 9.65(2) allows 61 dB(A) at residential and 66 dB(A) at commercial boundaries, higher than standard limits.

Are vibrations regulated too?

Yes. Section 9.65(7) requires uses creating intense vibrations, like drop forges, to set back 300 feet from a residential or commercial zone line.

Sources & Official References

[1]Grand Rapids City Code § 9.65(2) — Noise Control Ordinance

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All Grand Rapids rules

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