Lower Merion, PA Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Section 105-3 of the Lower Merion Township Code sets the noise ceiling with two tests. First, no person or equipment may create sound exceeding background sound level by five decibels at a residential property or seven decibels at a nonresidential property. Second, regardless of background level, a chart in the same section fixes maximum A-weighted sound pressure levels by zoning district and time of day: in residential districts, 75 dBA impulsive and 65 dBA continuous during daytime (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.), dropping to 60 dBA impulsive and 50 dBA continuous at night (8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.); in nonresidential districts, 75 dBA impulsive and 70 dBA continuous by day, and 65 dBA impulsive and 55 dBA continuous at night.

Section 105-4 requires measurements be taken on the receiving property, within 10 feet of the property line closest to the source, at least five feet from any sound-reflecting structure, and three feet above grade, using a Type I or Type II sound level meter under Section 105-5. The Building and Planning Department investigates complaints and can assess a $75 reinspection fee under Section 105-7.A when it is called back to the same property twice within 60 days and confirms a violation. Section 105-2 makes exceeding these limits unlawful outright, and several activities, including deliveries, refuse collection, outdoor dining, and permitted construction hours, are carved out under the exemptions in Section 105-6.