Apex, NC Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Events (2026)

Apex layers two enforcement frameworks for amplified music. First, Sec. 14-33 of the Town Code (Chapter 14, Article III, 'Other prohibited noises') specifically prohibits any person from using or operating on or over any public street 'any radio, phonograph or other similar mechanical device to produce sound or any mechanical loudspeaker or other sound-magnifying device at a level of volume greater than 55 dB(A) measured at a distance of 20 feet' - this is the hard numeric cap for amplified sound in the public right-of-way. Sec. 14-33 also enumerates additional prohibited noises including 'the playing of any radio, phonograph, amplifier, television, tape deck, tape recorder, or musical instrument' in a manner that constitutes prohibited noise. Second, on private property, the general Sec. 14-31 sound-emission standard applies - amplified music exceeding the applicable Table 1 dB(A) cap at the complainant's property line for more than ten percent of the measuring period is unlawful, with separate caps for daytime and nighttime hours (Sec. 14-31). Apex's downtown along North Salem Street hosts regular events including the popular Peakfest spring street festival, Halloween downtown trick-or-treat, holiday market, and Friday night summer concert series; these events typically operate under a Town-issued permit through the Town Council's special-event process. Carolina Beverage Company / Hops & Hounds and other downtown food/drink establishments with outdoor patios remain subject to the 55 dB(A)-at-20 ft cap for amplification audible from the public street, plus the Sec. 14-31 Table 1 standard if the sound carries across to adjacent residential or commercial properties. Exceptions under Sec. 14-32 cover emergency services, permitted parades, and other authorized activities.