Alpharetta, GA Noise from Specific Sources: Bar & Nightclub Noise (2026)

Section 26-114 of the Code of Ordinances sets Alpharetta's baseline sound limits: 60 dBA at a residential property line from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., dropping to 55 dBA overnight, measured with a sound level meter on the slow response setting under section 26-117. Subsection (f) adds a separate, tighter standard for commercial and business establishments, including bars and nightclubs, inside an MU-zoned master planned project such as Avalon or the downtown City Center. It is unlawful for such an establishment to run any radio, stereo, amplifier, loudspeaker or similar device at a volume that is plainly audible inside a nearby residential dwelling unit located 100 feet or more away, between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Sunday through Thursday and between 12:00 midnight and 7:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The code defines 'plainly audible' as sound whose information content, such as understandable speech, a raised voice, repetitive bass, or musical rhythm, can be distinguished by a listener with normal hearing without any listening device, so officers do not need a meter reading to write a citation for this standard. Separately, section 26-114(d) sets a 95 dBC ten-minute average limit (55 dBC otherwise) for venues seating 5,000 or more, measured from the sound board toward the rear of the facility, which governs large entertainment venues rather than a typical bar.

A business anticipating late amplified sound, such as a concert or DJ event, can apply to the chief of police for a special variance under section 26-118, which requires notice to nearby residents and a written balancing decision. Measurements for standard enforcement are taken by police officers trained on a sound level meter per section 26-117(b).