Elgin, IL Noise Ordinances: Industrial Noise (2026)

Elgin's noise ordinance prohibits excessive and annoying sounds, covering industrial and commercial operations along with other noise sources. The ordinance addresses loud machinery, amplified sound, power equipment, and other sources of industrial noise. Industrial facilities in Elgin must also comply with the Illinois Pollution Control Board noise regulations under Title 35, Subtitle H of the Illinois Administrative Code, which establishes specific numerical noise limits based on land classification. Under state law, noise emissions from property classified as industrial or commercial that impact residential property are limited to specific octave-band sound pressure levels measured at the receiving property line. The Illinois EPA has authority to investigate industrial noise complaints and enforce compliance. Site-specific noise emission standards may be imposed on individual facilities through environmental permits. Elgin's code enforcement division and police department respond to industrial noise complaints, and the city's noise brochure summarizes the ordinance for residents. Persistent industrial noise issues may be referred to the Illinois EPA for state-level enforcement.