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Carmel, IN Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Amplified music rules in Carmel, IN, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.

Key Facts

Code section: Carmel City Code Sec. 6-158(a), (g)
Definition: 'Stationary noise source' includes sound-amplifying equipment
Audibility test: Audible 50 feet or more from source
Hard cap: Over 70 dBA at 50 feet for any
Event exemption: Authorized parades/festivals/concerts (Sec. 6-158(b)(4))

Summary

Carmel City Code Sec. 6-158(a) covers any device that produces or reproduces sound, which includes amplified music. Sound audible 50 feet from its source, over 70 dBA at 50 feet, or above the zoning chart triggers a violation. 'Stationary noise source' expressly includes sound-amplifying equipment.

Stationary noise source. Any sound amplifying equipment and any other object, motor vehicle, facility, and/or source, whether fixed or movable, that is capable of emitting audible sound.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Carmel does not have a stand-alone amplified-music ordinance; amplified sound is regulated through the general noise rule. Sec. 6-158(a) applies to anyone who plays, uses, or operates 'any machine, motor vehicle, device, or thing that produces or reproduces sound,' which captures speakers, PA systems, stereos, and amplified instruments. The definitions in Sec. 6-158(g) reinforce this by defining a 'stationary noise source' to include 'any sound amplifying equipment.' A violation occurs when the sound is audible 50 feet or more from its source, exceeds the zoning-district chart for five minutes or more within any 30-minute period (measured at 50 feet on a dB(A) scale), or exceeds 70 decibels for any period of time at 50 feet.

Violations & Fines

Amplified-sound violations are infractions under Sec. 6-158(d), with fines escalating from up to $250 (first offense) to up to $2,500 (fourth and subsequent). Citations are issued by sworn Carmel Metropolitan Police officers (Sec.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Carmel regulate amplified music specifically?

There is no separate amplified-music ordinance, but Sec. 6-158(a) covers any device that produces or reproduces sound, and Sec. 6-158(g) defines a 'stationary noise source' to include sound-amplifying equipment. So speakers and PA systems are squarely covered.

When does amplified music become a violation?

When it is audible 50 feet or more from the source, exceeds the applicable zoning-district dBA limit for five minutes within a 30-minute period, or exceeds 70 dBA at 50 feet for any period of time.

Are concerts and festivals exempt?

Yes, when authorized. Sec. 6-158(b)(4) exempts parades, festivals, concert performances, and band/drum-corps performances (and rehearsals) approved by the Board of Public Works and Safety or another appropriate governmental entity.

Sources & Official References

[1]Carmel City Code Sec. 6-158 Noise Regulations (American Legal Publishing)

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