Green Bay, WI Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Green Bay, WI, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Loud-noise threshold
- 80 dB(A) at property line
- Daytime hours
- 7 a.m.–10 p.m.
- Nighttime hours
- 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
- Special event permit
- apply 30 days ahead
- Max forfeiture
- $200 per violation
Summary
Green Bay treats outdoor amplified or live music as regulated noise: a court can call it unreasonably loud once it tops 80 dB(A) at a neighboring property, and event organizers can request a special permit from Police at least 30 days ahead.
No person shall produce unreasonably loud noise. A court shall consider any relevant factors to determine whether any noise is unreasonable, including, but not limited to, the following: ... A court may determine any noise is unreasonable solely because it exceeds 80 dB(A) using an A-weighted sound pressure level instrument when measured from any property not under control of the person producing the noise.
Full Breakdown
Green Bay's citywide noise ordinance, not the zoning code, sets the operative standard for outdoor amplified or live music: a court may find noise unreasonably loud solely because it exceeds 80 dB(A) measured from a neighboring property, and also weighs time of day, surrounding land use, and duration. The zoning table separately flags outdoor live or amplified music as a conditional use in the D mixed-use district. Anyone planning an event that could exceed normal levels can ask the Police Department for a special permit at least 30 days ahead; the Chief may approve it with conditions if it won't harm public health and safety, with appeal to the Protection and Policy Committee.
Violations & Fines
Producing unreasonably loud noise, including amplified outdoor music above 80 dB(A) without an approved special event permit, carries a forfeiture of up to $200 per violation under § 24-146(f).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit for a loud outdoor concert in Green Bay?
What noise level triggers a violation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Green Bay
Compare Green Bay to another location·View the Wisconsin noise ordinances overview
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Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Brown County handle amplified music & outdoor sound.