The City of Portland’s Noise Control Code (Title 18) sets noise limits for certain types of activities at particular times of the day and night. The aim of the noise code is to protect residents from the harmful effects of noise while providing allowances for events, construction and other noise-generating activities that support the growth of our communities and the economy.
The current Noise Control Code has not undergone significant changes since 2001. With a growing population, expanding urban areas, and evolving industries, the noise landscape has become more complex. Managing noise is crucial for a healthy urban environment. This is why the Noise Program is working to amend and update the city's Noise Control Code, and we invite your participation in this effort.
Timeline
This project launched in the fall of 2023, with the goal of collecting public input throughout this project. A final draft of the proposed changes will be shared publicly for additional feedback before being submitted to the City Council for consideration in 2026.
Amending the Noise Control Code is a collaborative process between City staff, community members, businesses, the Noise Review Board (NRB), and industry experts and stakeholders who make up the Noise Advisory Workgroup (NAW). We will collect community input, feedback, and support throughout this effort.
What is being proposed
Some key questions under consideration for updating the Noise Control Code include:
- Should noise level distinctions between indoor and outdoor environments be maintained, or are they unnecessary?
- Why are there different daytime and nighttime noise regulations for multiple types of equipment? Could these be standardized?
- How can we simplify the Code Section 18.10 Maximum Permissible Levels to improve public understanding?
- Does the composition of the Noise Review Board represent all stakeholders and districts within the City of Portland, while also ensuring diversity, including multicultural, multigenerational and BIPOC representation? If not, what changes should be recommended?
How to get involved
Your voice matters in this process. We need your input, feedback, ideas and suggestions to make sure the Noise Code reflects the diverse needs of our community. Here’s how you can get involved:
Attend a monthly Noise Review Board meeting: The Noise Review Board meets on the third Wednesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. Information about upcoming Noise Review Board meetings can be found here. Agendas are usually posted before the meeting.
Attend your District Community meeting
District 2: April 24, 2024 - HELD
District 4: January 29, 2025 - HELD
District 1: August 12, 2025 - Register here
District 3: August 26, 2025 - Register here
Submit Feedback Online: Unable to attend meetings?
Submit your feedback through our online formEmail the Noise Program: You can submit your written comments to noise@portlandoregon.gov. Please include your full name and address. Be sure to list “Noise Code Comments” in the subject line. We kindly ask that you share your unique, personal comments rather than using templates or pre-written responses. Hearing directly from you in your own words helps us better understand your experience and perspective.
- Stay informed: If you would like to receive updates on upcoming activities related to this project, please subscribe to our distribution list and you will receive project updates, meeting agendas, and other information. To be included, please complete this form Noise Program Updates & Noise Review Board Newsletter Subscription.