Lexington Chapter 14 sets decibel thresholds by zoning district and time of day, with stricter limits in residential areas at night than in commercial or industrial zones.
Chapter 14 of the Lexington Code of Ordinances establishes measurable sound limits at the property line of the receiving property, with separate daytime and nighttime tiers. Residential receiving properties typically carry the lowest allowed levels, while commercial and industrial receiving properties carry progressively higher ceilings. Nighttime limits are generally about 10 decibels lower than daytime limits to protect sleep. Measurements are taken with a calibrated meter on the A-weighted scale, and certain sources such as emergency signals, permitted events, and safety-required devices are exempt. Property owners can commission independent sound studies to support or refute a complaint, and LFUCG Code Enforcement can conduct its own readings.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Lexington's decibel limits rules stack up against other locations.
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