Amplified music rules in Fort Lauderdale, FL — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Fort Lauderdale's Chapter 17 noise ordinance strictly regulates amplified sound with specific dBA and dBC limits that vary by day of week and time. Residential sound must not be plainly audible at 25 feet (10 PM-7 AM) or 50 feet (7 AM-10 PM). The city added dBC limits in 2024 to target bass frequencies.
Chapter 17 of the Fort Lauderdale Code of Ordinances regulates amplified music and sound with detailed standards. For residential properties, sound shall not be plainly audible for one minute or longer at 25 feet from the property line between 10 PM and 7 AM, or at 50 feet between 7 AM and 10 PM. For commercial/mixed-use properties, amplified sound levels shall not exceed 60 dBC from noon to 10 PM and 55 dBC from 10 PM to noon, measured within the premises of a complainant. The city added dBC (C-weighted) measurement limits to better capture low-frequency bass sounds, unlike standard dBA measurements that primarily detect mid-range sounds. For entertainment venues, Monday through Thursday limits are 85 dBA/95 dBC from noon to midnight, 70 dBA/80 dBC from midnight to 2 AM, and 65 dBA/75 dBC from 2 AM to noon.
Noise violations are enforced by the Fort Lauderdale Police Department and Code Enforcement. First violations may result in warnings; subsequent violations carry fines. The city has increased enforcement in the entertainment district area.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Broward County.
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