Jacksonville, FL Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- SLUCM Class A-D land uses
- Measured at
- receiving land use boundary
- Numeric limits set by
- EPB Rule 4
- Civil penalty
- up to $10,000/violation
- Criminal penalty
- $500 fine and/or 90 days
Summary
Noise sources on industrial, commercial and other zoned land can't send sound beyond the property line above levels set by the Environmental Protection Board, enforced under Chapter 368.
With the exception of sound levels specifically authorized by the rules of the Board, the maximum permissible sound levels allowed at or within the real property boundary of a receiving land use shall not exceed the general levels fixed in the rules of the Board. An activity or use that produces a sound in excess of the permitted sound levels for a receiving land use shall be deemed a noise disturbance and in violation of this Chapter and the rules of the Board.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 6 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Jacksonville's Noise Control Ordinance regulates any equipment or facility operating on land classified Class A, B, C or D under the SLUCM land-use codes, covering industrial and commercial noise sources, that emits sound past the property line. Section 368.202 caps sound measured at the boundary of the receiving land use at the general levels the Environmental Protection Board fixes in its rules, using an ANSI-standard sound-level meter. The Chapter applies countywide within the General Services District, not the separate beach cities or Baldwin.
Violations & Fines
Knowing or willful violation is a Class D criminal offense: up to $500 and 90 days in jail. Civil penalties run up to $10,000 per violation, with each day of a continuing violation a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Jacksonville code itself list decibel numbers for industrial noise?
What happens if an industrial or commercial noise source exceeds the limit?
Where does Chapter 368 apply?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Jacksonville
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Jacksonville to another location·View the Florida noise ordinances overview
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