New Orleans, LA Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Public-space sound cap
- 80 dBA average at 50 feet
- Weeknight quiet hours (house-to-house)
- 9:00 p.m.–10:00 a.m.
- Weekend quiet hours
- 10:30 p.m. Fri/Sat–10:00 a.m.
- Enforcing agencies
- NOPD or Dept. of Health
- Max criminal penalty
- 90 days jail plus fine
Summary
New Orleans caps amplified music, radios and similar sound devices at an average of 80 decibels measured 50 feet from the source in any public right-of-way, park, playground or recreation area. Police or the Health Department can order violators to stop immediately.
It shall be unlawful to operate or play in any public right-of-way, public park, playground or recreational area, any musical instruments, radio, television, phonograph, tapeplayer, cassette player, compact disc player, or any sound device, including but not limited to loudspeakers or other devices reproducing or amplifying sound in such a manner, or with such volume, as to exceed an average of 80 decibels measured at a distance of 50 feet from the sound source.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 116 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
" The New Orleans Police Department or the Department of Health is directed to order any violator to cease creating the noise immediately; failure to obey that order triggers enforcement under section 66-137. m. m. the following morning. Multi-unit buildings get a stricter standard under subsection (3)e: sound audible "within any other apartment, condominium unit or other dwelling unit" during those same hours is prohibited outright, regardless of distance. g. 60/70 dBA (L10/Lmax) at residential receiving property during the day, dropping to 55/60 dBA overnight, with the more restrictive limit controlling when a source spans zones.
Violations & Fines
A first violation of section 66-140 is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to the maximum authorized under state law, imprisonment up to 90 days, or both; each day of continued violation is a separate offense. The city may also seek injunctive relief or a restraining order under section 66-141 to abate the operation of the offending equipment regardless of the criminal penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can amplified bass be in a New Orleans park?
When must bass be inaudible to my next-door neighbor?
Is the rule stricter in apartment buildings?
What happens if I ignore a police order to turn down bass?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in New Orleans
Compare New Orleans to another location·View the Louisiana noise from specific sources overview
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