Amplified music rules in Cincinnati, OH — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Cincinnati Municipal Code Section 909-9 makes it prima facie unlawful for restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues to permit amplified music after 11 PM that disturbs the peace of the surrounding neighborhood.
Section 909-9 of the Cincinnati Municipal Code specifically addresses loud musical noises at commercial venues. It is prima facie unlawful for any restaurant, hotel, or entertainment establishment to permit music after 11 PM that disturbs the peace and quiet of the neighborhood. Section 909-5 separately addresses amplified sound from motor vehicles, making it unlawful if the sound is plainly audible at 50 feet from the vehicle. The general community noise provision in Section 909-3 also applies to amplified music from any source, prohibiting sounds that disturb neighborhood peace with due regard for proximity to residences and hospitals. Street musicians using unamplified instruments are exempt under Section 909-7 during designated hours (11:30 AM to 1 PM and 5:30 PM to 10 PM) with a maximum of two performers and a 90-minute time limit. Ohio municipalities have broad authority to regulate noise under ORC 715.49.
Minor misdemeanor for a first violation. Venue operators face potential license issues for repeated complaints. Three or more violations within one year may be charged as a fourth-degree misdemeanor.
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See how Cincinnati's amplified music & events rules stack up against other locations.
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