Construction Noise Reduction: Why the Acoustic Fence Is Becoming a Compliance Standard

Noise is part of every construction site. Heavy machinery, demolition tools, and generators all add up. But in cities, the sound doesn’t stop at the fence line.

That’s when trouble starts and ignoring it is costly. 

A single complaint can delay operations. Repeated complaints can lead to full project suspension.

A simple acoustic fence can make all the difference.

According to Ryan Masotti, SONCO’s specialist in construction projects:

“Many contractors already treat acoustic fence panels as part of basic site setup, right next to signage, barriers, and safety equipment.”

Real Cases Showing Why The Acoustic Fence Matters

Construction noise complaints are rising across the U.S. and the numbers show it.

• The Dollinger v United Engineering (Mount Vernon, NY) case is about a homeowner who sued for loss of profit due to repeated excessive construction noise and intervention by authorities.
• NYC’s Office of the State Comptroller audit shows construction noise complaints in NYC’s 311 system more than doubled. During the audit period, 90,861 construction noise complaints were filed.
• A Boston neighborhood “Parcel 12 construction” was publicly criticized by neighbors who said overnight drilling and equipment noise disrupted sleep and quality of life.
• Also in Boston, a project in Lynn faced community pushback over noisy equipment during a beach cleanup initiative.

When Noise Becomes a Liability

Noise might seem harmless on-site. But once it reaches the community, it becomes a real problem.

People lose patience fast. Complaints reach inspectors. City agencies step in. And repeated violations can close doors to future jobs.

Every interruption means extra costs:

• Crews waiting while work is paused
• Equipment sitting idle
• More labor to catch up later

And the long-term effects hit harder:

• Public projects dropped after community pushback
• Developers losing contracts over repeated complaints
• Companies blacklisted from bids for being “too noisy”

Noise Rules Are Getting Stricter

Cities now enforce tighter sound limits.

In Boston, for example, construction noise above 70 decibels during restricted hours can trigger a stop-work order or fine under the city’s environmental code.

That’s why acoustic fencing isn’t just about being a good neighbor, it’s compliance protection.

Why the Acoustic Fence Is Now Strategic

Noise control is a business decision.

• For CEOs

It protects the company’s reputation. Projects that look and sound well-managed build long-term trust with clients and communities.

• For Project Managers and Superintendents

It means fewer interruptions, fewer shutdowns, and no surprises from noise-related inspections. Keeping the site quiet keeps the schedule on track.

• For Procurement Leads and CFOs

Noise mitigation avoids unplanned fines and rework costs. Adding acoustic fencing in the planning phase saves both time and budget later.

Proactive companies already include acoustic fence panels in early project setups. It’s part of a professional image and a sustainable approach to urban construction.

Turning Down the Volume With the Acoustic Fence

When noise becomes a threat to your project, prevention is the only strategy that pays off.

That’s where SONCO’s acoustic fence panels come in.

Echo Barrier H9™ Acoustic Fence Panel

The H9 offers dependable noise reduction up to 43 dB and quick 30-second installation. 

Each panel weighs only 12 lb and hangs directly on most Temporary Fence systems.

Key features:

• Up to 43 dB noise reduction (lab-tested)
• Fire- and water-resistant (Class 5 PVC, ASTM E84, BS 7837-1996)
• Installs in 30 seconds — one-person setup
• Works with existing fence rails and mesh
• 10+-year lifespan, reusable across projects

Echo Barrier H10™ Acoustic Fence Panel

Built for high-noise or long-term projects, the H10 combines 43.4 dB noise reduction with a four-layer design for maximum strength. 

It’s waterproof, flame-rated, and includes theft-prevention and RFID tracking features.

Key features:

• Up to 43.4 dB noise reduction (lab-tested)
• Reinforced mesh backing for durability
• Fire-rated (ASTM E84, BS 7837-1996) and weatherproof
• Compatible with most Temporary Fence systems
• Rated for 10+ years of outdoor use

See an acoustic fence in action and learn more about it.

Both Echo Barrier H9™ and H10™ panels are easy to set up and move around, so they work for any project size, from small remodels to big builds. 

These systems scale up fast, making them great for busy areas near hospitals, offices, or homes where noise control really matters.

Why Contractors Choose SONCO

With over 45 years in perimeter and safety, we understand the pressure construction teams deal with — tight schedules, tough rules, and high expectations. 

SONCO helps you stay compliant and keep every project moving.

With us, you get:

• Acoustic Fence panels designed for real jobsite conditions
• Temp Fence and accessories for full perimeter protection
• Privacy Screens and bases that work with any setup
• Fast delivery and a team ready to help you stay compliant

Get a Quick Quote for Acoustic Fence

What sets SONCO apart is our team of experts who know construction sites inside and out.

“We help contractors plan ahead and get everything on-site on time. They already face enough pressure, so we make sure noise control and site setup aren’t part of it.”

— Ryan Masotti, Construction Industry Specialist at SONCO

With the right Acoustic Fence panels, the right support, and on-time delivery, SONCO helps you control site noise, avoid complaints, and keep your projects moving.

Reach out today by emailing sales@soncostore.com, calling 866-254-6510, or visiting soncocrowdcontrol.com.