Berwyn, IL Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Section 666.02(B) covers radios, musical instruments, phonographs and vehicle sound devices. Division (1) reaches a stationary radio, tape cassette player, stereo, boom box or kicker box that disturbs the peace, quiet and comfort of neighboring inhabitants, or that plays at any time louder than is necessary for convenient hearing by voluntary listeners in the room. Division (2) is the measurable rule: a device located on the public way, or in any motor vehicle on the public way, cannot produce sound clearly audible to a person with normal hearing at a distance greater than 75 feet.

The only exemption is for a person taking part in a parade or public assembly for which a permit was obtained under city ordinances. Division (3) sets the fine at up to $750. Division (4) adds seizure and impoundment of the vehicle, with the owner of record liable to the city for a $500 penalty on top of towing and storage fees. An officer with probable cause tows the vehicle to a facility controlled by the city and tells the person in control of the right to a preliminary hearing.

If the owner asks within 12 hours of the seizure, a Hearing Officer holds that hearing within 24 hours, excluding Sundays and holidays, and the owner can post a $500 cash bond plus fees to recover the vehicle. The city then notifies the owner of record by certified mail within ten days, and the full hearing is held no later than 30 days after the seizure unless continued. The standard of proof at that hearing is a preponderance of the evidence. The owner of record is the record title holder.