Amplified music rules in Berks County, PA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Amplified-sound limits are municipal, not countywide. Reading prohibits any radio, loudspeaker or similar device that causes a noise disturbance across a property line at any time, or is plainly audible across a boundary between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Berks County sets no amplified-music rule; it is handled by municipalities. Reading Code §387-104.A bars operating any “radio, television, phonograph, drum, musical equipment, disc or tape player, loudspeaker or other similar device” that causes a noise disturbance across a property line at any time, or between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. is plainly audible across a boundary, or is audible on a public street 50 feet from its source. Permitted parades and public assemblies are exempt. Amplified announcements at athletic, political and civic events are also exempted under §387-107.A.
Reading fines run $25 to $1,000 plus costs per offense; each day is separate. Police enforce.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Berks County's amplified music & events rules stack up against other locations.
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