Amplified music rules in South Bend, IN — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Amplified music that exceeds the 55/62 dBA property-line limits (Sec. 13-82) or is plainly audible 50 feet away (Sec. 13-57) is prohibited, and is presumed illegal overnight. Playing noncommercial music in public places requires a Board of Public Works permit.
Sec. 13-81 bans radios, instruments, and amplifiers loud enough to exceed the Sec. 13-82 limits of 55 dBA at night and 62 dBA by day in residential districts. Sec. 13-57(c)(2) independently prohibits sound plainly audible 50 feet from the building or vehicle, with 11 PM to 7 AM operation as prima facie evidence of a violation. Playing noncommercial music in public places requires an annual permit from the Board of Public Works (Sec. 13-57(d)). A second police response to a loud party triggers a Disturbance Violation Fee (Sec. 13-57.1).
Amplified-noise fines run $100, $250, then $500 under Sec. 13-57, or $50 to $2,500 under Article 7. A second-response party citation adds a $50 fine plus billing for police personnel and equipment costs.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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