Coeur d'Alene, ID Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

The Coeur d'Alene City Council adopted the amplified sound rule in section 5.24.030, titled Noise Abatement, citing its authority under Idaho Code section 50-308 to limit the production of sound. The rule uses a distance test, not a decibel reading. Subsection B defines Plainly Audible as any audible sound that can be detected by a person using unaided hearing faculties, and defines a Sound Amplification System as any radio, tape player, compact disc player, loudspeaker or other electrical or mechanical device used for amplification of sound.

Subsection C makes it unlawful to operate or permit the operation of such a system on a street, highway, alley, sidewalk, parking lot, driveway, park, beach, motor vehicle or public right-of-way in a manner that disturbs the peace, quiet or comfort of a reasonable person, or so that the sound is plainly audible at fifty feet (50') or more from the system. Subsection D bars officers from weighing content: the content of the sound is not considered when determining a violation, so the rule applies equally to music, talk radio and other audio.

The chapter has two related permit provisions. Section 5.24.010 requires a City Clerk permit, on recommendation of the City Administrator or Parks Director, before a sound truck, loudspeaker or sound amplifier is operated on a vehicle on city streets, and section 5.24.020 requires the application to state the number of days or hours and the proposed route. Under subsection I, the City Administrator or Parks Director can allow amplified sound on public property for a special event or other permitted activity, subject to reasonable conditions. The rule does not apply to emergency vehicles or City vehicles in their work capacity.

Citations can be appealed. A written application on the City form is due within ten (10) days of the civil assessment. The Noise Abatement Board, five members appointed by the Mayor, hears the appeal within thirty (30) days, decides in writing within ten (10) days, and a further appeal to the City Council must be filed within ten (10) days of the Board's notice.