Loud Noise Complaints

Chapter 20 of the Tempe City Code (Noise) was amended in February of 2000 to improve its effectiveness.  As for enforcement responsibilities, members of the Police Department, Development Services, Community Development, Neighborhood Office, and Public Works have agreed on the following division of primary investigative responsibility: 

Noise sources that are exempt from enforcement:

  • Air-conditioning equipment when it is functioning in accordance with manufacturer's specifications and is in proper operating condition.

  • Properly functioning lawn maintenance equipment with all mufflers and noise-reducing equipment in use and in proper operating condition.

  • Non-amplified noises from planned activities involving schools, government, or community groups.

  • Noises of safety signals, warning devices and emergency relief valves.

  • Noises from authorized emergency vehicles or noise resulting from emergency work.

  • Noises coming from the normal operations of railroad trains (includes crossing noises).

  • Noise from church chimes.

  • Power plant equipment during normal operation.

Neighborhood (Residential) Enhancement (480-350-8372) will be responsible for:

  • Air Conditioners

  • Animals/Barking Dogs

  • Vehicle Repair

  • Complaints regarding violations in vacant lots

The Police Department (480-350-8311) will be responsible for:

  • Vehicles on the street

  • Bars/Nightclubs

  • Boom Boxes

  • Concerts

  • Domestic Situations

  • Fireworks

  • Gunfire

  • Parties

  • Special Events

After Hours Response (5pm - 7am)

The Police Department will respond to noise complaints that are received after normal business hours.  In addition to responding and validating or abating the violation, the responding officer will forward a copy of the report outlining the findings and response to the appropriate Code Enforcement Division the next business day.

Development Services (Commercial) Code Enforcement (480-350-8310) will be responsible for:

  • Air Conditioners

  • Construction Equipment

  • Delivery Trucks

  • Machinery

  • Power Tools

  • Sweepers

The Neighborhood Office (480-350-8234) will be responsible for:

  • Cconstruction noise outside of prescribed hours

Public Works (350-8265) will be responsible for:

  • Trash Truck noise

  • Construction noise from streets

Aviation Specialist Department (480-350-8300) will be responsible for:

  • Aircraft Noise