Dothan, AL Noise from Specific Sources: Bar & Nightclub Noise (2026)

City Code § 62-102(2)c makes it a nuisance, and unlawful, to operate or play a radio, television, phonograph, musical instrument or similar device producing sound from a business or residence so that it is plainly audible to another person at a distance of 50 feet in a commercial, residential, multifamily, or public place. Subsection (2)c.i carves out a later cutoff for businesses located in the Entertainment District defined by Section 6-102: those bars, restaurants, and nightclubs may run outdoor music until it becomes inaudible at 100 feet, but must silence it after 12:00 a.m.

Sunday through Thursday and after 1:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Outside the Entertainment District, the ordinary 50-foot, all-hours standard in (2)c governs bar and nightclub sound bleeding into neighboring commercial or residential property. Section 62-105 sets the penalty for any Article III noise violation, including this one: a first offense draws a fine of up to $200.00, issued by citation from the Dothan Police Department, while a subsequent or repeated violation can bring arrest and a fine of up to $500.00 and/or up to six months in the municipal jail, with each incident charged as a separate offense. Section 62-104 lets the city manager waive Article III noise requirements for emergencies or special occasions the commission designates.