Arlington Heights regulates outdoor music through its general nuisance provisions in Chapter 14. Playing music outdoors — whether live or recorded — that is unreasonably loud and disturbs neighbors may be cited as a nuisance. The village hosts several outdoor events with music through the Park District and downtown area, which operate under special event permits.
Outdoor music at private residences in Arlington Heights is subject to the same nuisance standards as other noise sources under Chapter 14. Music that is audible beyond the property line and disturbs the comfort and repose of neighbors, particularly during evening and nighttime hours, may result in a complaint and citation. There are no specific decibel limits or designated music hours for residential outdoor music. The Arlington Heights Park District hosts outdoor concerts and events at venues like North School Park and Frontier Park, operating under village event permits with sound conditions. The downtown Arlington Heights district also hosts events with outdoor music, managed through the village's special events process. Private outdoor events such as graduation parties, weddings, and gatherings are expected to keep music at a reasonable level and wind down by late evening.
Outdoor music causing a nuisance can result in fines starting at $75 per violation. Police may ask you to reduce volume before issuing a citation. Repeat offenders face escalating fines. Contact AH Police at (847) 368-5300 for active complaints.
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