Oklahoma City, OK Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

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.