Bossier City, LA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Section 110-81's regulation clause governs "sound-amplifying equipment," defined in subsection (a) as any machine or device that amplifies the human voice, music or other sound, but the definition specifically excludes standard car radios heard only by the vehicle's own occupants and excludes warning devices, horns or other safety equipment on emergency vehicles. Subsection (b)'s three numbered rules set the operative limit: no sound from amplifying equipment may exceed 15 dbA above the ambient level as measured at any property line; the volume must never be so loud, raucous, jarring or disturbing that it becomes a nuisance to a person of normal sensitivity within the area of audibility; and any sound-pressure measurement is taken from 25 feet away from the source.

Subsection (c) adds a parallel "plainly audible" test for radios, stereos, televisions, phonographs and similar playback devices, treating audibility at the property line, or 25 feet away for a vehicle, as prima facie evidence of a violation, though school bands and permitted parades are exempted under subsection (c)(3). Subsection (f) sets one penalty for the whole section: a fine of not less than $100.00 nor more than $500.00 for each offense, up to ten days in jail, or both, enforced by the Bossier City Police Department. The rule traces to Ordinance No. 44-2006, adopted May 23, 2006.