Your neighbours throwing a party. Traffic on the highway behind your house. Noise nuisance is a source of irritation, stress and sometimes even sleepless nights. But when does noise actually become a nuisance? And how many decibels is too much? Noise from around 60 decibels is often perceived as a nuisance, especially when it happens at an inconvenient time or lasts too long. In this blog, we explain when noise becomes a nuisance and what you can do yourself to protect your ears and keep your peace of mind.
Nuisance from neighbours: what is acceptable?
When it comes to noise around the home, the number one complaint is usually about neighbours. That could be anything from loud music and slamming doors to footsteps from upstairs or a dog that won’t stop barking. But when does noise actually cross the line into nuisance? In the US, noise laws and quiet hours vary by state and city. Many municipalities use guidelines around 35–45 decibels for nighttime in residential areas. To put that into perspective: a normal conversation at about three feet away already reaches roughly 60 decibels.
It is important to know that it's not just about volume, but also about frequency and timing. Playing the piano for an hour each morning at 10 is experienced very differently than hearing thumping bass at 2 in the morning. Especially if the latter is a regular occurrence.
Unfortunately, you can't do much about annoying neighbourly noises. But using good sleep earplugs, such as our Silence earplugs, is a simple solution to get through your day and night peacefully.
Noise nuisance from traffic
Do you live or work on a busy road, near the railway or under a flight path? In that case, traffic noise is likely a regular part of your day – and yes, it really can add up. Here's an indication:
- Highway: 80 - 95 dB
- A plane flying overhead: 90 - 110 dB
- A motorbike at full speed: 95 - 110 dB
Traffic noise is among the most commonly reported environmental nuisances in the US. Being exposed to traffic noise for a long time can cause stress, raise your blood pressure, and disrupt your sleep. All of these factors can raise the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
If you frequently ride a motorbike or work near busy roads, using hearing protection is essential. Consider motorbike earplugs, that block out unnecessary noise without drowning out important signals.
Measuring noise nuisance
Maybe you sense that the noise around you is too loud, but how can you really be sure? Measuring noise nuisance is very easy these days:
- Apps: There are several free decibel meters available as apps, such as Decibel X or NIOSH Sound Level Meter.
- Decibel meter: For more accuracy, you can buy a physical device, starting from just a couple of tens of dollars.
- Professional measurement: In case of persistent nuisance, you can get an official noise measurement through your city’s environmental health department or local authorities.
If noise consistently exceeds 70 dB and causes you annoyance or health problems, it is likely considered noise nuisance according to commonly recognized US public health guidelines.
Other forms of noise nuisance
Besides traffic and neighbours, there are plenty of other sources of noise that can be disturbing:
Construction and renovation work
Drilling or demolition noise can easily exceed 100 dB. For this reason, most US cities have noise ordinances that restrict construction noise to daytime hours, typically between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., depending on local law.
Dogs, lawnmowers and children
Even though the volume is often lower, repeated noises – such as barking, shouting and the sound of leaf blowers – can be mentally taxing. Especially if it happens every day or at unpredictable times.
Hospitality and events
Events with live music, outdoor terraces, or festivals are temporarily allowed to produce higher noise levels, but maximum noise limits still apply (noise usually should not exceed 85 dB on the exterior wall of nearby homes). If these limits are exceeded, you can report it to your municipality or local environmental department.
What you can do in case of noise nuisance
- Talk about it. If your neighbours are causing a nuisance, the first step is always to start a conversation. Often, people don’t realise how loud they’re being.
- Sound insulation. Think carpets, curtains or acoustic panels that dampen sound.
- Wearing earplugs. For occasional nuisance or if you are sensitive to noise, our sleep and everyday earplugs can provide effective relief.
- Report. If the nuisance is persistent or severe, you can reach out to your city hall, housing association, or environmental department.
- Using soothing audio. White noise or soothing music via an app or speaker can neutralise annoying background noise.
Frequently asked questions about noise nuisance
From what decibel level is noise considered a nuisance?
Daytime noise around 60–70 dB is usually seen as acceptable. At night, the limit is 35 dB. Structural disturbance above these levels constitutes nuisance.
What are my rights in case of noise nuisance from neighbours?
You have the right to live in peace and quiet. If talking does not help, you can reach out to your landlord or the municipality for support. In some cases, legal action is possible.
Do earplugs really help against noise nuisance?
Yes, good earplugs can reduce ambient noise by 20–30 dB. They are especially effective for occasional or night-time disturbances.
Is long-term noise nuisance bad for your health?
Definitely. Prolonged exposure to noise can raise stress hormone levels, disrupt sleep, and increase the risk of hearing damage, high blood pressure, or heart problems.
How high is the fine for noise nuisance?
The amount of a fine varies by municipality and situation. Warnings are often issued first. If repeated, a fine or penalty may follow.
Can I take a noise measurement myself?
Yes. With a smartphone app or a decibel meter, you can easily get a good sense of the noise levels yourself. Official steps often require professional measurement.
