Noise barriers
This video was produced for MnDOT’s 2015 Noise Policy and some provisions may not be relevant for all future road construction/noise wall projects. See MnDOT’s current noise requirements page for new provisions.
When MnDOT conducts noise studies
Two programs activate a noise analysis:
- The first is for a major reconstruction project in which the road would be expanded with additional lanes for more than a mile or would significantly change the alignment of the road. This type of project usually requires an in-depth environmental review process in which many issues are looked at one of which is noise and noise barriers.
- The other program is commonly referred to as a retro-fit project. It is for stand-alone noise walls where major reconstruction is not planned in the near future. As part of this program, areas are ranked by existing noise levels, length of barrier, and number of homes. View a copy of the ranking results.
How MnDOT determines whether a noise barrier can be constructed
A noise barrier must be both feasible and reasonable if it is to be constructed with a highway project. The reasonability of a noisewall is determined by factors such as cost, amount of reduction in noise, safety, and site features. Decisions on noise mitigation locations are determined on a case-by-case bases.
How noise barriers work
Noise barriers block the direct path of sound waves from the highway to homes and businesses along the highway. They do not eliminate noise, they only reduce the noise. To be considered effective, a noise barrier must reduce noise impact to receptors by at least 5 decibels.
Noise can't increase as it passes over the barrier
No. Noise does not increase as it passes over the barrier. The further noise travels, the greater the reduction in noise.
Trees can't be planted to block traffic noise
There isn't enough space to plant the amount of and size of trees needed to reduce traffic noise. To effectively reduce traffic noise there needs to be room for at least 100 feet of dense evergreen trees that are 15 feet tall or more. Additionally, if trees are used to reduce traffic noise, they need to be maintained. MnDOT lacks the necessary resources to maintain trees or other vegetation.
Noise barriers and property values
There haven't been any studies that link property values to noise barriers. Future buyers may either appreciate the noise reduction the barrier provides, or they may have aesthetic concerns about its presence.