Portland sets exterior noise limits under PCC 18.10: 55 dBA day and 50 dBA night at residential receptors, with 5 to 10 dBA bonuses for commercial and industrial receiving zones.
PCC Chapter 18.10 uses an A-weighted dBA standard. Residential receiving property limits are 55 dBA daytime (7 AM to 10 PM) and 50 dBA nighttime (10 PM to 7 AM). Commercial receiving zones allow 60/55 dBA and industrial allow 75/65 dBA. Short-duration impulsive noise adds a 5 dBA correction. Measurements are taken at the receiving property line using a Type 2 sound level meter set to slow response. Construction, permitted entertainment, and emergency work have separate standards. Repeat exceedances create civil infractions and can trigger variance revocation.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Portland code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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