Oklahoma City's noise ordinance uses a combination of decibel-based and plainly-audible standards. Residential zones are generally limited to 60 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime at the property line, while commercial and industrial zones allow higher levels. Violations are enforced by OKCPD and code enforcement, with escalating fines for repeat offenses.
Oklahoma City Municipal Code Chapter 30 sets numerical decibel limits that vary by zoning district and time of day. In residential zones, sound measured at the receiving property line may not exceed approximately 60 dBA during daytime hours (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) or 55 dBA during nighttime hours (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.). Commercial zones allow roughly 65 dBA day and 60 dBA night, and industrial zones permit 75 dBA around the clock. Impulsive sounds and pure tones are typically penalized by subtracting 5 dBA from the measured limit.
Enforcement generally relies on plainly-audible standards for routine complaints, with sound-level meter readings used for repeat offenders or commercial disputes. OKCPD officers responding to noise calls use calibrated Type 2 meters and take readings at the complainant's property line. Construction noise, emergency work, lawful parades, and permitted special events are exempt during their authorized hours. Garbage pickup, HVAC equipment, and emergency generators during outages are also generally exempt. First-offense fines typically start around $100 to $250, with repeat violations escalating to $500 or more and potential misdemeanor charges.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Oklahoma City code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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