CMC Sections 909-7 and 909-9 govern outdoor music. Street musicians may perform unamplified during set midday and evening windows. Venue music after 11 PM that disturbs neighbors is prima facie unlawful.
Outdoor music in Cincinnati is regulated through multiple provisions of CMC Chapter 909. Section 909-7 exempts street musicians from the general loud noise prohibition but only under strict conditions: a maximum of two performers using unamplified instruments, during the hours of 11:30 AM to 1 PM or 5:30 PM to 10 PM, for no more than 90 consecutive minutes, and at least 100 feet from open markets. Section 909-9 addresses music at commercial venues such as restaurants, hotels, and entertainment establishments, making it prima facie unlawful to permit music after 11 PM that disturbs the peace of the surrounding neighborhood. Outdoor festivals and concert events typically require special event permits from the city, which may include specific sound management conditions. The general community noise standard in Section 909-3 applies to all outdoor music not otherwise exempted, prohibiting sounds that disturb neighborhood peace with regard to proximity of residences.
Minor misdemeanor for violations. Street musicians exceeding the permitted conditions lose their exemption and may be cited. Venues with repeated after-11 PM complaints risk escalated enforcement.
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