Amplified music rules in Shelby County, TN — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Shelby County Code Sec. 16-63 restricts radios, instruments, loudspeakers and other amplified sound devices, especially between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., when they disturb residents or nearby persons in unincorporated Shelby County.
Sec. 16-63 is the county's amplified-sound rule. It prohibits playing any radio, phonograph, musical instrument or sound device (including loudspeakers and other amplification) at a volume that annoys or disturbs the quiet, comfort or repose of persons in a residence, health care facility or the vicinity, 'particularly during the hours between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.' The section carves out commercial or political activity not primarily directed at residential areas where reasonable. Sec. 16-62 separately bans excessive noise near a school, church or health care facility while in session. Violations draw a fine up to $50.00 under Sec. 16-67. Incorporated cities apply their own amplified-sound rules.
Amplified music that annoys or disturbs residents, especially between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., violates Sec. 16-63 and is punishable under Sec. 16-67 by a fine up to $50.00 per violation, each day a separate offense.
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