Detroit Code §36-1-2 restricts fixed outdoor speakers. A speaker is unlawful if audible more than fifty (50) feet from the source, or if located within two hundred fifty (250) feet of a residentially zoned or developed area. Limited carve-outs exist for daytime intercoms and temporary event permits.
Section 36-1-2 has two independent triggers: a speaker is unlawful if audible past 50 feet or if within 250 feet of a residentially zoned or developed location. Two narrow exceptions apply. First, intercom systems used 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. solely for internal business affairs are not restricted by the 250-foot residential rule. Second, BSEED or the Board of Zoning Appeals may approve a temporary permit of thirty (30) days or less for religious services, fairs, bazaars, festivals, carnivals, or similar uses. Outdoor music is also subject to §36-1-1(a) generally, and permitted parades under §40-1-25 or §50-9-16 are exempt under §36-1-5(2).
A §36-1-2 violation is a misdemeanor under §36-1-6(a), punishable by up to $500 and 90 days in jail. Each day of operation may be cited separately. Temporary permits may be revoked if conditions are exceeded.
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