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Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions

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

Key Facts

Nighttime A-weighted limit: 50 dB(A), 10 p.m.-7 a.m. weeknights
Daytime A-weighted limit: 60 dB(A)
Nighttime C-weighted limit: 3 dB(C) above ambient
Applies: Unincorporated borough only, § 8.52.030(A)
Max fine per violation: $500, § 8.52.025(B)

Summary

Amplified sound in the unincorporated Matanuska-Susitna Borough cannot push total A-weighted sound levels above 50 dB(A) between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weeknights, or 60 dB(A) at any other time, measured at the receiving property line under Matanuska-Susitna Borough Code § 8.52.015(C). A second, C-weighted vibration standard tightens the nighttime limit even further.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Matanuska-Susitna Borough. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

No person shall operate or permit the operation or playing of any radio, stereo, television, phonograph, loudspeaker, speaker system, amplified drum, amplified musical instrument, sound amplifier, or similar sound-amplifying device on a source property which produces, reproduces, or amplifies sound in such a manner that it raises the total sound levels above the permissible sound limits set forth in Table 1 when measured at or within the boundary of the property of the receiving land. Table 1: Maximum Permissible Sound Level Limits Weeknights 10:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m. 50 dB(A) All Other Times 60 dB(A)

View official code

Full Breakdown

, and 60 dB(A) at all other times, measured at or within the boundary of the receiving property. , and no more than 5 dB(C) above ambient at other times. 030(A) confines the whole chapter to areas of the borough outside the cities of Wasilla, Palmer, and Houston. 55.

Violations & Fines

Every occurrence of a prohibited act is a separate infraction under § 8.52.025(A), and § 8.52.025(B) caps the fine at $500 per violation. The Chapter 1.45 fine schedule sets the amplified sound and vibration violation at $150 for a first offense, $300 for a second, and $500 for a third or subsequent offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the nighttime noise limit in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough?

Amplified sound cannot exceed 50 dB(A) on weeknights between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., measured at the boundary of the receiving property, under § 8.52.015(C), Table 1.

Does the daytime limit differ from the nighttime limit?

Yes. At all other times outside the weeknight 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. window, Table 1 in § 8.52.015(C) allows up to 60 dB(A), ten decibels higher than the nighttime cap.

Are permitted special events exempt from the decibel limits?

Yes. Section 8.52.020 exempts sound emitted during a special event properly permitted under the code and sound covered by a valid temporary noise permit issued under Chapter 8.55.

Does the borough noise ordinance apply inside Wasilla or Palmer?

No. Section 8.52.030(A) limits Chapter 8.52 to areas of the borough outside the cities of Wasilla, Palmer, and Houston, which regulate noise under their own city codes.

Sources & Official References

[1]Matanuska-Susitna Borough Code

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Quiet HoursSome Restrictions Parking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingFew Restrictions Barking DogsSome Restrictions Fence Regulations: Material RestrictionsLight Restrictions Fence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsFew Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Breed RestrictionsSome Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Mandatory Spay/NeuterSome Restrictions Animal Ordinances: MicrochippingLight Restrictions

All Matanuska-Susitna Borough rules

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