Idaho Falls, ID Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Unlike cities that set numeric dBA caps, Idaho Falls regulates noise qualitatively. City Code 5-4-11 (Nuisance Noise, Ord. 3536) contains no decibel figures anywhere. Instead, 5-4-11(B) defines 'plainly audible' as any unusual or amplified sound that can be detected by a person using unaided hearing faculties from a distance of 50 feet from the source emitting the sound. If the source is not readily determinable, the property line of the parcel from which the sound is emitted is deemed the source. The substantive prohibition in 5-4-11(C)(1) then bars any loud, repetitive, or high-pitched noise, or amplified or reproduced sound, that is plainly audible at 50 feet. This means enforcement is based on whether an officer or complainant can hear the sound at the 50-foot threshold, not on a sound-level-meter reading. The code's purpose clause (5-4-11(A)) frames the goal as preventing noise that disturbs the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of persons who are not voluntary listeners. Because no decibel limit exists, this entry honestly reflects that absence rather than citing a numeric figure the code does not contain. Violations are infractions under 5-4-11(F) with a fine set by Council resolution.