Denver, CO Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Denver, CO, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Residential daytime limit
- 55 dB(A), 7 a.m.–10 p.m.
- Residential nighttime limit
- 50 dB(A), 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
- Permitted event cap
- 85 dB(A), max 8 days/year
- Enforcing agency
- Public Health & Environment, Police
- Maximum penalty
- $999 fine and/or 300 days jail
Summary
Denver caps amplified sound crossing into a home at 55 dB(A) from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 50 dB(A) overnight, measured at the property line by the health department and police under DRMC Chapter 36.
It shall be unlawful for any person to emit or cause to be emitted any noise that leaves the premises on which it originates, crosses a property line, and enters onto any other premises in excess of the sound pressure levels permitted during the time periods specified in Table A.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 147 Update 3).
Full Breakdown
Denver's noise code (DRMC ch. 36, Table A) sets maximum sound pressure levels for any noise, including amplified music, that crosses a property line onto another premises. A residential receptor's limit is 55 dB(A) between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. and 50 dB(A) overnight; commercial, industrial and public receptors carry higher ceilings. The Department of Public Health and Environment and the police measure compliance with a sound level meter at the receiving property line. A separate carve-out lets permitted public noise-producing events, such as concerts or festivals, reach 85 dB(A) at the nearest residence, capped at eight days a year and no more than four consecutive days.
Violations & Fines
General penalty (DRMC § 1-13): up to a $999 fine, up to 300 days in jail, or both per offense, and each day the violation continues is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a concert or festival in Denver legally play louder than the normal noise limit?
What decibel level counts as illegal amplified noise from a Denver home or business?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denver
Compare Denver to another location·View the Colorado noise ordinances overview
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