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Lima, OH 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 Lima, OH, 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
Lima C.O. 648.20
Covers
Radios, loudspeakers, stereos
Decibel limit
None; nuisance test
Permit exemption
Special City permit
Max fine
$500

Summary

Lima Codified Ordinance 648.20 prohibits operating radios, loudspeakers, and sound-reproduction devices so as to create a noise disturbance across a property boundary, in or about a vehicle, or in a public place. Fines run from $100 to $500.

No person shall operate or permit the operation of any radio, television, loudspeaker, sound amplifier, musical instrument or other device for producing or reproducing sound in such a manner as to create a noise disturbance across a boundary of property, or when operated in or about a motor vehicle on a public right of way or at a public place.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Ordinance 648.20 directly targets amplified sound: no person may operate or permit the operation of any radio, television, phonograph, musical instrument, loudspeaker, or sound-reproduction device in a manner that creates a 'noise disturbance' across a property boundary, in or about a motor vehicle on a public right-of-way, or in a public place. There is no numeric decibel threshold; the test is whether the amplified sound unreasonably disturbs a person of ordinary sensibilities. Public functions with a special City permit and activities allowed by the Ohio Revised Code are exempt. This is the core provision used against loud parties, car stereos, and outdoor sound systems in Lima.

Violations & Fines

$100 first conviction; $250 second within one year; $500 third or subsequent within one year. No portion of the fine may be suspended or reduced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is loud amplified music illegal in Lima?
Yes, if it creates a 'noise disturbance' across a property line or in public under Ordinance 648.20. Amplified music is one of the main targets of the ordinance.
Can I get a permit for an amplified outdoor event in Lima?
Yes. Ordinance 648.20 exempts public functions that have obtained a special permit from the City, so permitted events are not treated as violations.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Lima

Quiet HoursSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsVehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsBarking DogsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome Restrictions

All Lima rules

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