Outagamie County, WI Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Outagamie County, WI, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Sec. 34-28(b)(1)
- Standard used
- 'Noise disturbance,' no decibel number
- First offense fine
- $100 to $500
- Repeat offense fine
- $200 to $1,000
Summary
County code bans intentionally operating any sound source, including amplified equipment, in a way that creates a noise disturbance on private or public property, at any hour.
(4)Noise disturbance. Any noise which tends to annoy or disturb a reasonable person. ... (b)Prohibited conduct.(1)No person shall intentionally operate or cause to be operated on private or public property any source of sound in such a manner as to create a noise disturbance.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 26).
Full Breakdown
Section 34-28(b)(1) prohibits intentionally operating, or causing to be operated, 'any source of sound' -- which covers loudspeakers, PA systems and other amplified equipment -- 'in such a manner as to create a noise disturbance,' defined as sound that would annoy or disturb a reasonable person. The ban runs around the clock instead of setting a decibel number or an amplified-music curfew. It's a general chapter 34 offense, not a zoning rule, so it isn't limited to towns that adopted chapter 54; Appleton and the county's other incorporated cities also enforce noise through their own municipal codes.
Violations & Fines
A first offense against the noise provisions carries a forfeiture of $100 to $500; a repeat offense runs $200 to $1,000, per section 34-28(e).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a decibel limit for outdoor speakers or music?
Can I get a permit for a loud outdoor event?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Outagamie County
Compare Outagamie County to another location·View the Wisconsin noise ordinances overview
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