Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Olathe

Olathe, KS Noise from Specific Sources: Bar & Nightclub Noise (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Noise limit
85 dBA at customer area
Exception
Posted hearing-impairment warning sign
Max fine
$500 per violation
Section
§ 6.18.040(I)

Summary

Places of public entertainment in Olathe, Johnson County, Kansas, bars, nightclubs, and similar venues, must not exceed 85 dBA at any customer area unless a posted warning sign about hearing damage is displayed at each public entrance.

(I) Operating, playing or permitting the operation or playing of any radio, television, phonograph, drum, musical instrument, sound amplifier, or similar device which produces, or amplifies sound in any place of public entertainment at a sound level greater than 85 dba as read by the slow response on a sound level meter at any point that is normally occupied by a customer, unless a conspicuous and legible sign is located outside such place, near each public entrance, stating "WARNING: SOUND LEVELS WITHIN MAY CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING IMPAIRMENT."

View official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 26-39, passed July 21, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Under Olathe Municipal Code § 6.18.040(I), part of the Kansas city's Noise Control Ordinance, places of public entertainment, bars, nightclubs, and similar venues in Olathe, Johnson County, violate the code if amplified sound exceeds 85 dBA slow-response measured anywhere a customer normally stands, unless the venue posts a conspicuous sign near each public entrance warning about permanent hearing impairment.

Violations & Fines

Violating venues face prosecution in Olathe Municipal Court; fines run up to $500 per Municipal Code § 6.18.090(D), with each day of continued violation a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a bar avoid Olathe's 85 dBA limit?
Yes: if it posts a conspicuous sign near each public entrance warning that sound levels inside may cause permanent hearing impairment, per § 6.18.040(I).
How is the sound level measured?
On the slow response setting of a sound level meter, at any point normally occupied by a customer inside the venue.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Olathe

Animal Ordinances: Chickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsDelivery Truck NoiseSome RestrictionsLow-Frequency Bass LimitsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsHeavy RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: BeekeepingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSignificant Restrictions

All Olathe rules

Compare Olathe to another location·View the Kansas noise from specific sources overview

Get notified when Bar & Nightclub Noise in Olathe, KS changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.