Industrial noise in New Orleans is regulated under Chapter 66 of the Municipal Code, with decibel limits varying by zoning district. Industrial operations along the Mississippi River, port facilities, and manufacturing plants must keep noise within established property line limits, with stricter standards near residential boundaries.
New Orleans Chapter 66, Article IV of the Code of Ordinances sets out specific decibel limits for industrial activities, with measurements taken at the property line of the receiving zoning district. The general framework follows a standard receiving district approach, where the maximum allowable sound depends on whether the property next door is residential, commercial, or industrial.
When an industrial operation is adjacent to a residential district, the limits drop substantially. Daytime limits at the residential property line are typically around 60 to 65 dB(A), and nighttime limits drop to roughly 55 to 60 dB(A). Industrial-to-industrial property lines allow higher levels, often 75 dB(A) or more. The Port of New Orleans, refineries, and chemical facilities along the Mississippi River corridor must operate within these limits except where preempted by state or federal regulation.
Impulsive sounds such as pile driving, metal stamping, or compressor releases are subject to lower allowable levels because of their disruptive character. Pure tones and low-frequency sound may also trigger penalty corrections. Facilities with persistent compliance issues may be required to submit a noise abatement plan to the Department of Safety and Permits and install attenuation measures such as barriers, enclosures, or operational changes.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact New Orleans code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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