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Larimer County, CO Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Amplified music rules in Larimer County, CO, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.

Key Facts

Residential limit
55 day / 50 night dB(A)
Variance available
Yes, § 20-27 (≤1 year)
Variance hard cap
90 dB over 8+ hours
Church bells
Exempt during services
Measured at
Receiving property line

Summary

Outdoor music and events fall under the same § 20-23 dB(A) limits (55 day / 50 night in residential zones). Fort Collins lets a stationary source apply for a variance under § 20-27, but capped so noise over 8 hours never exceeds 90 dB.

City-specific rules exist: Fort Collins, and Loveland have their own amplified music & outdoor sound rules that differ from Larimer County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Under no circumstances shall the noise level of an activity for which a variance is granted for a period of time in excess of eight (8) hours exceed ninety (90) decibels.

View official code

Full Breakdown

There is no blanket exemption for outdoor concerts, patios or backyard events; sound is measured against the § 20-23 zone limits at the receiving property line. For a planned event, Fort Collins § 20-27 allows the operator of a stationary noise source to apply to the Code Compliance Inspector for a time-limited variance (up to one year), but under no circumstances may a variance exceeding eight hours allow noise above 90 decibels. Church bells and chimes during religious services are exempt (§ 20-25(5)). In unincorporated Larimer County the residential 55/50 db(A) limits govern outdoor amplified events.

Violations & Fines

Operating without meeting limits or a granted variance draws a Fort Collins summons (§ 20-29); county events face $30/$60/$300 escalating fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get permission for a louder outdoor event?
Yes. Fort Collins § 20-27 lets you apply for a variance, but noise for any variance lasting over eight hours can never exceed 90 decibels.
Are outdoor music limits different from indoor?
No. The same § 20-23 dB(A) table applies; the limit depends on the zoning district and time of day, not whether the source is inside or out.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Larimer County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsQuiet HoursSome RestrictionsConstruction HoursSome RestrictionsDecibel LimitsSome RestrictionsLeaf Blower RulesSome RestrictionsVehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsAircraft NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome Restrictions

All Larimer County rules

Compare Larimer County to another location·View the Colorado noise ordinances overview

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Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Cities Across Larimer County

Fort Collins, COLoveland, CO