Amplified Music & Events: Garfield vs Paramus
How do amplified music & events rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Garfield and Paramus have similar restriction levels.
Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Garfield restricts amplified music and portable sound devices using time-of-day plainly-audible distances and conditions amplified sound at special events.
View full Garfield rules →Paramus, NJ
Bergen County
In Paramus, radios, televisions, instruments, and similar devices may not be plainly audible 50 feet away, and commercial loudspeakers may not be audible 250 feet away under Chapter 309.
View full Paramus rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime audible limit | Inaudible at 50 feet | - |
| Nighttime audible limit | Inaudible at 25 feet | - |
| Special events | Permit conditions apply | - |
| Maximum fine | $3,000 per offense | - |
| Personal Audio | - | 50 feet audibility limit |
| Commercial Loudspeaker | - | 250 feet audibility limit |
| Code Chapter | - | Chapter 309 Noise |
| Standard | - | Plainly audible test |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Garfield FAQ
Do I need a permit for amplified music at a backyard party?
Not for private gatherings, but the sound must remain within the plainly-audible distance limits. A permit is required only for special events on public property.
Can restaurants play amplified music on outdoor patios?
Yes, provided sound is not plainly audible past the relevant 50-foot or 25-foot threshold and complies with applicable Table I-III decibel limits.
Paramus FAQ
How does Paramus measure amplified sound violations?
Paramus uses a plainly audible standard rather than a decibel meter. If a device is clearly heard 50 feet away (or 250 feet for commercial loudspeakers), it is prima facie evidence of a violation.
Do these limits apply during the day too?
Yes. The audibility limits in Chapter 309 apply at all hours, though louder activity is more strictly scrutinized between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. quiet hours.
Compare other topics
See how Garfield and Paramus compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool