Amplified music rules in Fayetteville, AR — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Fayetteville makes amplified music, radio, or instruments plainly audible 150 feet from the source between 1 AM and 8 AM an automatic violation (Sec. 96.02(C)). Commercial zones, including the Dickson Street entertainment district, cap sound at 75 dB(A) daytime.
Under Sec. 96.02(C), any amplification device, radio, TV, drum, or musical instrument plainly audible 150 feet or more from its source between 1 AM and 8 AM is automatically a noise disturbance, bass reverberation counts, and words need not be discernible. Outside those hours, sound is measured against Table 1 limits: 60 dB(A) residential and 75 dB(A) commercial by day. Fayetteville's Dickson Street bar and music district operates under commercial limits. Event organizers request a variance permit from the Mayor under Sec. 96.07, filed at least 14 days ahead for public events.
Fine up to $500 per offense under Sec. 96.99, doubled for repeats, plus $250 for each continuing day. Unpermitted amplified events near residences are enforceable immediately.
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