Milwaukee Code Chapter 80 sets measurable decibel limits of 60 dBA daytime and 55 dBA at night at residential property lines, with higher limits in commercial and industrial zones.
Milwaukee enforces both a plainly-audible standard and numeric decibel limits. In residential zones the cap is 60 dBA from 7 AM to 10 PM and 55 dBA from 10 PM to 7 AM, measured at the property line of the complainant. Commercial zones allow 65 dBA daytime and 60 dBA at night. Industrial zones allow 70 dBA. Construction equipment and emergency operations are exempt. Enforcement officers use ANSI Type 2 sound meters. The Milwaukee Police Department handles nighttime complaints while DNS handles daytime enforcement.
First violation $150, second $300, third and subsequent $500. Persistent violations can escalate to municipal court prosecution.
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