Amplified music rules in New Orleans, LA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Amplified music in New Orleans is regulated under Chapter 66 of the Municipal Code, with special rules for the French Quarter (Vieux Carre) where stricter decibel limits apply. Sound from speakers, PA systems, and live venues must not exceed posted limits at the property line, and the city has an active sound enforcement unit responding to violations.
New Orleans treats amplified music as a regulated activity under the comprehensive sound ordinance found in Chapter 66, Article IV of the Code of Ordinances. The ordinance distinguishes between zoning districts, with the French Quarter and adjacent residential districts subject to lower allowable sound levels than mixed-use commercial corridors such as Frenchmen Street or Bourbon Street.
In the Vieux Carre Entertainment (VCE) and Vieux Carre Commercial (VCC) districts, amplified sound from a venue measured at the property line must generally not exceed 70 decibels (dB(A)) during daytime hours and lower levels at night. Outside the French Quarter, the general residential nighttime limit is approximately 60 dB(A) measured at the property line, and 75 dB(A) in commercial districts during the day. These thresholds are enforced by the Department of Safety and Permits sound enforcement officers, who use calibrated meters during inspections.
Clubs, bars, restaurants, and event venues that use amplified music are required to install sound systems that can be measured and adjusted to remain compliant. Repeat violations can result in fines, mandatory sound abatement plans, and in some cases suspension of the venue operating permit. Special event permits, including for second line parades or block parties, may grant temporary exemptions but require advance approval from the Mayor's Office of Cultural Economy.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact New Orleans code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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