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Delaware County, PA Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

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

Key Facts

County decibel rule
None
Vehicle cars ≤35 mph
76-78 dBA (67 Pa. Code)
Vehicle cars >35 mph
82-84 dBA
Measurement distance
50 feet from lane center
Residential standard
Municipal (often audibility)

Summary

Delaware County sets no decibel ordinance. Pennsylvania fixes motor-vehicle decibel limits statewide (67 Pa. Code § 157.11), while general property-line decibel limits, where they exist, are set by each municipality.

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

No person shall operate either a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles of a type subject to registration at any time or under any condition of grade, load, acceleration or deceleration in such a manner as to exceed the following noise limit for the category of motor vehicle within the speed limits specified in Table 1.

View official code

Full Breakdown

There is no countywide decibel law. For vehicles, the state's PennDOT regulation 67 Pa. Code Section 157.11 sets fixed maximum sound-level readings measured 50 feet from the center of the travel lane, ranging by category and speed. For everyday residential noise, many Delco municipalities use an audibility test (e.g., Middletown's 100-foot rule) rather than a decibel meter, though some townships adopt property-line decibel tables. Because the residential threshold is municipal, the number that applies to your yard depends on your borough or township. Consult your local noise chapter to learn whether it uses decibels or an audibility standard.

Violations & Fines

Exceeding the state vehicle limits is a summary traffic offense. Municipal decibel or audibility violations carry local fines (Middletown up to $600 per offense).

Frequently Asked Questions

What decibel level is illegal in Delaware County?
For residential noise it depends on your municipality; many use an audibility test, not decibels. For vehicles, PA sets fixed dBA limits statewide under 67 Pa. Code §157.11.
How are vehicle decibels measured in PA?
Under 67 Pa. Code §157.11, readings are taken 50 feet from the center of the travel lane, with limits from 76 to 92 dBA depending on vehicle type and speed.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Delaware County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsQuiet HoursSome RestrictionsConstruction HoursSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Dog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsVehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsAmplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsLeaf Blower RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome Restrictions

All Delaware County rules

Compare Delaware County to another location·View the Pennsylvania noise ordinances overview

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