Shelby County, TN Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
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.
Key Facts
- Governing Section
- Sec. 16-63
- Focus Hours
- 11 p.m.–7 a.m.
- Covers
- Radios, speakers, instruments
- Applies In
- Unincorporated county
- Penalty
- Fine up to $50/day
Summary
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.
The playing of any radio, phonograph, or any musical instrument or sound device, including … loudspeakers or other devices for reproduction or amplification of sound … particularly during the hours between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., as to annoy or disturb the quiet, comfort or repose of persons … is hereby prohibited.
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Fines
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are loudspeakers restricted in unincorporated Shelby County?
Are political or commercial amplification allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
Compare Shelby County to another location·View the Tennessee noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.