Maricopa County, AZ Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Maricopa County, AZ, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Governing law
- Maricopa County Ordinance P-23 (Noise Ordinance)
- Distance threshold
- Audible within 500 feet of property line
- Scope
- Unincorporated Maricopa County only
- First offense fine
- $300, rising to $750 for repeats
- Enforcement
- Written warning, then misdemeanor charge
Summary
In unincorporated Maricopa County, radios, loudspeakers, and other amplified sound equipment can't be heard from inside a closed home within 500 feet of your property line, day or night, under the county's Noise Ordinance.
It shall be unlawful for any person to operate any radio, loudspeaker, musical instrument, or other sound producing, sound reproducing, or sound amplification equipment which emits noise that can be heard from within closed residential structures located within 500 feet of the boundary of the property from which such noise emanates.
Full Breakdown
Maricopa County Ordinance P-23 bans operating a radio, loudspeaker, musical instrument, or other sound-producing, sound-reproducing, or sound-amplification equipment that can be heard inside a closed residential structure within 500 feet of the property line where the sound originates. The rule covers only unincorporated Maricopa County -- incorporated cities, towns, and tribal land are excluded. The Board of Supervisors or its designee, including the Sheriff's Office, enforces it by issuing a written warning first; if the noise doesn't stop by the stated deadline, the violator is charged with a misdemeanor in Maricopa County Justice Court. Fines start at $300 for a first offense, rise to $500 for a second, and hit $750 for the third and later offenses.
Violations & Fines
Amplified sound audible inside a neighbor's closed home within 500 feet draws a written warning first, then a misdemeanor charge with fines of $300, $500, or $750 per offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this noise ordinance apply inside Phoenix or Scottsdale?
How loud can amplified music be at home?
What happens on a first violation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Maricopa County
Compare Maricopa County to another location·View the Arizona noise ordinances overview
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