Amplified music rules in Phoenix, AZ — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Phoenix City Code section 23-14 enumerates amplified-sound nuisances, including playing a radio, phonograph or musical instrument loudly (especially 11 PM-7 AM) and using mechanical loudspeakers or amplifiers on vehicles for advertising, both judged against whether they disturb persons nearby.
Amplified sound in Phoenix is regulated under the enumerated-nuisance provisions of City Code section 23-14 (Chapter 23, Article I, Division 2). Subsection (b) addresses 'the playing of any radio, phonograph or any other musical instrument in such a manner or with such volume, particularly between the hours of 11:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M., as to annoy or disturb the quiet, comfort or repose of persons' in any office, hospital, dwelling, hotel or other residence, or any persons in the vicinity. A separate subsection prohibits 'the use of mechanical loudspeakers or amplifiers on automobiles, trucks, buses or other moving or standing vehicles for advertising or other purposes.' Vehicle-mounted loudspeakers are also addressed by City Code section 36-73 (loudspeakers or amplifiers in or on vehicles). Because section 23-14 states that its list of prohibited noises 'shall not be deemed to be exclusive' but only illustrative, amplified music that disturbs the peace can also be cited under the general prohibition in section 23-12.
Violations of Chapter 23 are prosecuted by the Phoenix City Prosecutor as misdemeanors under the City Code general-penalty provisions. Amplified gatherings that draw a police response may additionally trigger Loud Party / Event response fees under City Code section 2-22.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle amplified music & events.
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