Des Moines, IA Noise from Specific Sources: Bar & Nightclub Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit type
- Type "E" background sound permit
- Noise limit
- 65 dBCs at property boundary
- Zones allowed
- Commercial, mixed-use, East Village areas
- Permit term
- Up to one year
- Enforcing agency
- Community development department
Summary
Des Moines bars and nightclubs playing background music outdoors need a Type "E" sound permit capping noise at 65 dBCs, enforced by the community development department.
A type "E" permit may be issued for a commercially zoned area, mixed use zoned area, East Village noise control area or a commercially zoned PUD or PBP area for sound equipment to be used in an outdoor area in conjunction with an approved business use emitting music or human speech, excluding live music, registering not more than 65 dBCs... when measured at the property boundary, edge of designated seating area or 50 feet from the sound equipment whichever is closer. Sound equipment permitted under a type "E" permit may be used only during regular hours of business operation.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under Des Moines Municipal Code § 42-258, a business in a commercially zoned, mixed-use, or East Village noise-control area that wants to play recorded music or amplified speech outdoors, patio speakers, a rooftop bar, sidewalk seating, needs a Type "E" sound permit. The permit caps volume at 65 dBCs measured at the property line, the edge of the seating area, or 50 feet from the speakers, whichever is closest, and restricts use to normal business hours. Live music is excluded and is instead regulated as a general noise disturbance. Permits run up to one year and are issued by the community development department.
Violations & Fines
Operating amplified sound equipment outdoors without a Type "E" permit, exceeding the 65 dBC limit, or using speakers past business hours violates the code; the department can deny or revoke the permit, with penalties under the article's general penalty section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Des Moines bars need a permit for outdoor background music?
Does the Type E permit cover live bands?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Moines
Compare Des Moines to another location·View the Iowa noise from specific sources overview
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