Indianapolis, IN Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Indianapolis, IN, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Indy Code section 391-302(c)(2)
- Public-place distance
- Plainly audible beyond 75 feet = prima facie violation
- Night trigger
- Plainly audible off-property, 10:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m.
- Vendor-vehicle cap
- 115 dB at 6 inches; no operation 10:00 p.m. - 10:00 a.m. (section 391-302(c)(14))
- Permit
- Special-occasion permit can exempt amplified sound
Summary
Indianapolis Revised Code section 391-302(c)(2) prohibits radios, loudspeakers, sound amplifiers, and musical instruments that make unreasonable noise, and treats sound that is plainly audible off the property between 10 PM and 7 AM, or more than 75 feet away in a public place, as prima facie evidence of a violation.
(2) Machines and devices for producing sound. Playing, using, or operating, or permitting to be played, used, or operated, any radio, television, digital media player, loudspeaker, sound amplifier, musical instrument, or any machine or device for producing or reproducing sound in a manner that makes unreasonable noise and continuing to do so after being asked to stop, except when a permit granted therefor for some special occasion is in effect. The operation of any such machine or device in a manner that produces sound plainly audible to a person with normal hearing: a. From any place other than the property on which the sound source is located when the machine or device is being operated between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.; b. From a distance greater than seventy-five (75) feet from the sound source of the machine or device when it is located in any public street or public place of the city; or c. In any public conveyance other than a taxicab or jitney, except for a person who is voluntarily listening to the machine or device through earplugs; shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this subsection, except when a permit granted therefor for some special occasion is in effect.
Full Breakdown
; (b) sound plainly audible 'from a distance greater than seventy-five (75) feet from the sound source' when the device is located in any public street or public place; or (c) sound in a public conveyance (other than a taxicab or jitney), unless heard only through earplugs by a voluntary listener. on any public street.
Violations & Fines
First violation in any twelve-month period: civil penalty via the ordinance violations bureau. Second violation: not less than $250.00; subsequent violations: not less than $500.00 (section 391-302(d)).
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can I play music outdoors in Indianapolis?
Can I get a permit for a loud event?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Indianapolis
Compare Indianapolis to another location·View the Indiana noise ordinances overview
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