Asheville, NC Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Section 10-85 of the Asheville City Code lists specific noise activities that are unlawful unless the noise article otherwise allows them. The first prohibition targets amplified advertising noise: no one may intentionally project sound from an amplified device onto adjoining or neighboring properties to attract attention, by creating noise, to a business, location, performance, show, event, sale, or display, though sound from city-operated Mobile Sound Vehicles during daytime hours is excepted. The second prohibition protects schools and medical clinics specifically: producing amplified sound within 150 feet of the property line of a public school holding classes, or of a medical clinic that is open or caring for patients, is unlawful when that sound is clearly audible more than 150 feet from the amplifying device.

The section notes this does not restrict sound the schools or clinics themselves generate, since that is already governed by the general decibel limits in § 10-83. A venue that wants to run amplified sound above these limits, such as a nightclub or event space, can instead apply for a Type 1, 2, or 3 sound exceedance permit under § 10-88, which authorizes a set number of event days per year, requires a sound impact plan and advance neighbor notice, and still caps emitted sound at 85 dBA Leq at any occupied residential dwelling. m. m. Friday and Saturday, for no more than eight hours at a stretch.