Madison County, AL Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Madison County, AL, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Governs
- Unincorporated Madison County only
- Restricted hours
- 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
- Max fine
- $500 per offense
- Max jail
- 3 months
- Enforcer
- Madison County Sheriff
- Effective date
- January 31, 2024
Summary
Madison County's Noise Ordinance bars playing any radio, television, drum, musical instrument or other sound-amplifying equipment loud enough to disturb a reasonable neighbor, especially between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., in the unincorporated county. The Madison County Sheriff investigates complaints, and violators face a Class C misdemeanor and fine.
The playing of any device, radio, television, phonograph, drum, musical instrument, or sound production, reproduction or amplification equipment in such manner or with such volume, particularly during the hours between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., so as to annoy or disturb the peace, quiet, comfort or repose of any reasonable person of ordinary firmness and sensibilities in the vicinity.
Full Breakdown
Madison County voters approved a constitutional amendment under Act No. 2018-167 on November 6, 2018 authorizing the Commission to regulate noise in the unincorporated county, and the Commission's current Noise Ordinance, restated by resolution, took effect January 31, 2024. m. B, including time of day, proximity to homes, whether the noise is recurrent, and whether it was mechanically amplified. Certain uses are carved out, such as chimes or bells at schools, camps or religious institutions running no more than 10 minutes per hour, and public festivals or permitted events.
Anyone planning an event with amplified sound can apply to the County Administrator for a noise permit at least 15 business days ahead; the Commission, Sheriff and County Attorney review the request, and a denial or revocation can be appealed in writing to the Commission within 10 days. Complaints go to the Madison County Sheriff's Office, which investigates and may seek criminal process through the District Court Warrant Magistrate.
Violations & Fines
Violating the amplified-sound provision is a Class C misdemeanor under Section VII of the Noise Ordinance, punishable by a fine of up to $500 per offense, imprisonment for up to three months, or both. Each day the noise continues is a separate, chargeable offense. The Sheriff's Office investigates complaints and can pursue criminal process through the county's District Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play music loudly at my house in unincorporated Madison County?
Do I need a permit for a party with a DJ or live band?
What happens if I'm cited for loud music?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madison County
Compare Madison County to another location·View the Alabama noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.