Amplified music rules in Winston-Salem, NC — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Amplified music in Winston-Salem must not be plainly audible at 50 feet from the property line during quiet hours (11 PM to 7 AM). Downtown entertainment district venues hold special noise variances for outdoor events.
Winston-Salem Code Chapter 38 regulates amplified sound from stereos, PA systems, live bands, and vehicle sound systems. The core standard is plainly audible at 50 feet from the source or property line during quiet hours, and 100 feet at any other time. Downtown Winston-Salem has a designated Entertainment District around Fourth Street and Trade Street where licensed venues can operate amplified sound until 1 AM Thursday-Saturday with a variance. Outdoor events on Wake Forest campus and at Truist Stadium operate under individual event permits. Vehicle audio audible 50 feet away is a separate violation (see vehicle noise).
Civil penalty 100 dollars first offense, 250 dollars second, up to 500 dollars thereafter. Equipment seizure possible for repeat offenses.
Winston-Salem, NC
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