Fayetteville, AR Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
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.
Key Facts
- Auto-Violation
- 150 ft audible, 1 to 8 AM
- Residential Day Limit
- 60 dB(A)
- Commercial Limit
- 75 dB(A) daytime
- Event Permit
- Mayor variance, Sec. 96.07
- Penalty
- Up to $500; $250 per day
Summary
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.
the use of an amplification devise, radio, television, phonograph, drum, musical instrument or similar devise... shall be deemed annoying or disturbing... if the sound is produced between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., and is plainly audible a distance of 150 feet or more from the source of the sound.
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Fines
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play loud music at a backyard party?
Do event organizers need a noise permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fayetteville
Compare Fayetteville to another location·View the Arkansas noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Washington County handle amplified music & outdoor sound.