Boise, ID Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Boise, ID, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Standard
- Plainly audible, not decibel-based
- Residence rule
- Audible inside another residence = violation
- Street rule
- Audible 100 ft+ on public ROW = violation
- Covered devices
- Radios, stereos, PA systems, loudspeakers
- Classification
- Infraction under § 1-4-2
Summary
Boise bans running a radio, stereo, PA system, or other amplified sound device if it's plainly audible inside another residence or 100 feet away on a public street.
It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or permit the operation of any loud amplification device in such a manner that the sound therefrom: A. Is plainly audible within any place of residence not the source of the sound; or B. Is plainly audible upon a public right-of-way or street at a distance of one hundred feet (100') or more from the source of such sound.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-31: Code current through: Ord. 20-26, passed 6-9-2026).
Full Breakdown
Boise City Code Chapter 5-7 (Noise Control) makes it unlawful to operate any "loud amplification device", defined to include radios, stereos, tape or CD players, loudspeakers, musical instruments, and PA systems, so that the sound is plainly audible inside any residence that isn't the source, or plainly audible on a public right-of-way or street 100 feet or more from the source. There's no decibel meter involved; the test is whether the sound (understandable speech, a raised voice, or a recognizable musical rhythm or melody) can be made out by a listener. Permitted events, municipal/school/religious property activities, and First Amendment-protected gatherings (rallies, marches, performances in public spaces) are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Infraction, penalty set under Boise City Code § 1-4-2; officers can cite on their own observation, or a citizen witness can sign a citation alongside a peace officer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Boise use a decibel limit for amplified music?
Are permitted events or park performances exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boise
Compare Boise to another location·View the Idaho noise ordinances overview
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