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What constitutes a noise disturbance in Orlando?

Being noisy at home not only bothers your neighbors, it may also create a breach of peace according to the laws in Orlando, FL. Both non-residential and residential properties must follow the Orange County Noise Pollution Control Ordinance, which stipulates that certain disturbances rise to the level of noise pollution.

It is important to understand noise ordinances so that you remain in the good graces of the law. Here are a few points to keep in mind.

What is noise pollution?

Noise pollution can come in many forms. Along with disturbances from a home party or gathering, construction work can also constitute pollution depending on the decibel level. The sounds of hammering, drilling, and tearing down home fixtures can violate the law if the sounds are excessive.

In this case, the noise must fall within the limits expressed in the ordinance, which ranges from 15 to 182 decibels. A sound level meter can determine the exact decibel level. You may also violate the law if the level of noise coming from your domicile would disturb a “reasonable individual with normal sensitivities”.

Are there exceptions to the law?

There are lots of exceptions to this rule, particularly when it comes to construction work. Noise from a permitted construction project is usually acceptable, provided it takes place between 7 am and 10 pm. The same standards apply to the noise created by lawn maintenance, which is acceptable when taking place between those hours.

Other exceptions include any noise made by generators used to maintain power during an outage or other type of emergency. Vehicle noises are another exception, provided the use of the vehicle adheres to relevant laws and guidelines.

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