Des Plaines, IL Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Des Plaines, IL, 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
- Des Plaines City Code 6-2-7(F)
- Quiet-hours limit
- 3 dBC above neighborhood residual sound level
- Other-times limit
- 6 dBC above neighborhood residual sound level
- Measurement
- C-weighting, 'fast' response, inside complainant's residence
- Stacks with general limits
- Also subject to 6-2-7(E) dBA thresholds
Summary
Des Plaines City Code 6-2-7(F) makes it unlawful to operate any sound-production or amplification device whose sound crosses a property line and raises total sound on another property above the neighborhood residual level by more than 3 dBC during quiet hours or 6 dBC at all other times, measured inside a complainant's residence.
In addition to the other prohibitions on excessive noise set forth in this section, it is unlawful for any person to cause or permit any sound production or amplification device to emit sound that crosses a property line and raises the total sound levels on another property above the neighborhood residual sound level by more than: 1) three (3) dBC during quiet hours or 2) six (6) dBC during all other times measured from a location within the residence of a complainant. These sound level measurements shall be conducted with the sound level meter using frequency weighting network "C", "fast" response, as specified in the most recent ANSI specifications for sound level meters.
Full Breakdown
Des Plaines regulates amplified music and PA systems with a dedicated standard separate from its general dBA limits. ' These readings use C-weighting and 'fast' response per ANSI specifications, capturing the bass/low-frequency energy typical of stereos, subwoofers, and live amplified music. This amplified-sound limit applies 'in addition to the other prohibitions on excessive noise set forth in this section,' so amplified music can also be cited under the general dBA thresholds in 6-2-7(E). Quiet hours (10 PM-7 AM weeknights; 11 PM-10 AM before weekends/holidays) trigger the tighter 3 dBC standard.
Violations & Fines
Violators are fined under the general penalty in City Code Title 1, Chapter 4, for each offense (6-2-7(G)).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play amplified music at a party in Des Plaines?
Why does the amplified-sound rule use dBC instead of dBA?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Plaines
Compare Des Plaines to another location·View the Illinois noise ordinances overview
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Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cook County handle amplified music & outdoor sound.