Marion, OH Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Amplified sound in the City of Marion is governed by two items in § 634.03 of Chapter 634, Noise Control. Division (E) covers Loudspeakers and Public Address Systems. Under (E)(1), using or operating any loudspeaker, public address system, mobile sound vehicle or similar device amplifying sound on a public right of way or public space for any commercial purpose requires a permit before the activity begins. Under (E)(2), noncommercial use between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. is declared not in violation so long as the sound does not create an unreasonably loud noise disturbance across a residential real property boundary. The printed text of (E)(2) reads 2:00 a., an apparent typographical break that the excerpt reproduces unchanged.

Division (I) covers radios, television sets, musical instruments and similar devices, listing radio, television, phonograph, drum and musical instrument. Under (I)(1), the window is again 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. with the same unreasonably loud test at a residential boundary. Under (I)(2), a device operating in or on a motor vehicle on a public right of way or public space must not create a continuing noise disturbance at fifty (50) feet from the device.

Numeric limits come from § 634.04 Table I, with residential at 70, 65 and 60 decibels and commercial at 75, 70 and 65 across its three time blocks. Section 634.02 exempts noncommercial public speaking and public assembly activities on public space or public right of way from the general noise disturbance prohibition, and § 634.11(B) exempts organized school or church related programs, activities or events, and parades or other public programs authorized by the Mayor or a designated representative. The Safety/Service Director can grant a special variance under § 634.07.