Construction noise guidelines for the FM area

Fargo, North Dakota – In regions where the projects are actively underway, many individuals may find the obtrusive noises of construction to be grating. Have you ever wondered how buildings might be affected by Moorhead, West Fargo, and Fargo’s local noise regulations?

Construction work may begin in Fargo and Moorhead at 7 a.m., and in West Fargo at 6:30 a.m. The work may continue in any of the three cities until 10 p.m. Construction projects are exempt from the city of Fargo’s noise law, even though they are limited to the predetermined time range.

For concrete sawing, there is an exception because it must frequently be done at night and is particularly time-sensitive, according to Tom Knackmuhs, the assistant city engineer for the city of Fargo.

In contrast, Moorhead has a fairly lax noise ordinance. Noise is a contaminant, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The city’s ordinance cannot be regulated by the agency; only noise may.

“The MPCA has been given jurisdiction under the Minnesota Statute to establish noise restrictions or regulations. The truth is that, even if the city desired a more detailed noise regulation, we actually lack the ability to enact such a law, according to Tom Trowbridge, assistant city engineer for Moorhead.

The MPCA also keeps an eye on noise levels.

Construction is permitted for a predetermined proportion of time and at a predetermined noise level. 60–65 weighted decibels are permitted in residential zones during the designated construction daylight hours. This indicates that noise levels cannot be greater than 65 dBA for more than 10% of the time or greater than 60 dBA for more than 50% of the time.