Noise from Specific Sources in Montgomery, AL

If you live in Montgomery or are thinking about moving there, noise from specific sources are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Montgomery has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of noise from specific sources, and some of them might surprise you.

Bar & Nightclub Noise

Montgomery makes it a nuisance and a crime for any business, bar, or nightclub to play a radio, stereo, television, phonograph, or musical instrument so loudly the sound is plainly audible 25 feet away to anyone inside a commercial, residential, multifamily, or public space. Sec. 18-175(c) applies around the clock with no permit exception, so a nightclub cannot buy its way around the limit.

Key details: Audibility distance: 25 feet from device to listener. Covers: Businesses, bars, residences, public places. Maximum fine: $500.00 per Sec. 18-172. Continuing violation: Each day is a separate offense. Permit exception: None for acts already banned by Sec. 18-175.

A citation under Sec. 18-175(c) is punishable by up to a $500.00 fine per Sec. 18-172, and municipal court can impose that fine again for every additional day the plainly audible sound continues, since Sec. 18-172 treats each day as a separate offense. Officers do not need to prove a specific decibel level, only that the sound crossed the 25-foot line.

Low-Frequency Bass Limits

Montgomery's noise ordinance defines audibility by ear, not decibel meter, and expressly states that bass reverberations count even when the words of a song aren't clear. Any raucous, disturbing or unreasonably loud sound, including bass-heavy music, needs a police-issued permit unless it falls under a listed exemption.

Key details: Audibility test: By ear; bass reverberations count even if words unclear. Permit needed: For any raucous or unreasonably loud noise. Permit lead time: File 15 business days ahead with special events dept.. Permitting authority: Chief of police. Penalty: Up to $500 fine per day.

Sec. 18-172 sets the penalty for the entire noise division, including unpermitted bass-heavy sound: a fine not to exceed $500.00, with each day a violation continues charged as a separate offense. A permit can also be revoked before an event by the chief of police, with the mayor's or city attorney's concurrence, on written notice stating the grounds.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Montgomery actively enforces its low-frequency bass limits requirements.

The Bottom Line

Montgomery's noise from specific sources rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Montgomery is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Montgomery's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.