Noise disturbances are handled differently depending on the nature and location of the noise. Some noises are even
exempted from local regulations. Choose from the options below to learn more.
How do I make a noise complaint? (Residential &
Bars/Clubs)
Residents of unincorporated Orange County affected by a noise disturbance coming from another residential
property or a bar, or alcohol serving establishment, should contact the Orange County Sheriff's Office,
(407) 836-4357.
Noise disturbances occurring within city limits are handled by the appropriate municipal authority.
Be advised that the following are exempted:
- Lawn maintenance activities from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m.
- Railway locomotives or car activity conducted in accordance with federal laws and regulations.
- Aircraft and airport activity conducted in accordance with federal laws and regulations.
- Generators used during or as a result of an emergency.
- Construction or demolition activities for which the county has issued a development permit, between 7
a.m. and 10 p.m.
- More details regarding exemptions can be found in Section 15-185.
How do I make a noise complaint? (Non-Residential)
Residents of unincorporated Orange County adversely affected by noise pollution from a non-residential
property that does not serve alcohol should contact the Environmental Protection Division, (407) 836-1468.
Noise disturbances occurring within city limits are handled by the appropriate municipal authority.
Be advised that the following are exempted:
- Lawn maintenance activities from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m.
- Railway locomotives or car activity conducted in accordance with federal laws and regulations.
- Aircraft and airport activity conducted in accordance with federal laws and regulations.
- Generators used during or as a result of an emergency.
- Construction or demolition activities for which the county has issued a development permit, between 7
a.m. and 10 p.m.
- More details regarding exemptions can be found in Section 15-185.
What are some noise ordinance exceptions?
- Lawn maintenance activities from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m.
- Railway locomotives or car activity conducted in accordance with federal laws and regulations.
- Aircraft and airport activity conducted in accordance with federal laws and regulations.
- Generators used during or as a result of an emergency.
- Construction or demolition activities for which the county has issued a development permit, between 7
a.m. and 10 p.m.
- More details regarding exemptions can be found in Section 15-185.
When is something considered noise pollution?
Noise pollution, also referred to as noise disturbance, is defined as:
- Any sound produced in such quantity and for such duration that it annoys, disturbs or injures a reasonable person of normal sensitivities, and
- Exceeds the sound level limits set forth in Section 15-182 of the Noise Pollution Control Ordinance or is plainly audible.
How are noise disturbances measured?
There are two ways that Orange County measures noise pollution. One method uses a sound level meter to record
the decibel level of the noise. The second method is called the "plain audible standard." The plain audible
standard is determined by first measuring the distance from the property line or right-of-way to the source
of the disturbance. Then the investigating officer will determine if they can hear the noise from the
allowable distance without any mechanical or medical device, such as a hearing aid.
What are some decibel ranges for common noises?