Outdoor amplified music in Honolulu must meet zoning decibel limits and generally stops by 10 p.m. Special events and Waikiki venues need DOH noise permits.
Outdoor live music, DJs, and loudspeaker systems are regulated under the same Hawaii Administrative Rules Chapter 11-46 framework enforced by the State Department of Health, plus Honolulu liquor and special event conditions. Amplified sound must stay within the receiving-zone limits, which drop to 45 dBA in residential areas after 10 p.m. Waikiki resort venues operate under Class B limits and often hold DOH community noise permits allowing higher thresholds during advertised hours. Concert promoters and hotel luau operations typically secure a noise permit and coordinate with Honolulu Police and the Department of Enterprise Services for city venues. Liquor Commission conditions may also impose cutoff times, often 10 p.m. weekdays and midnight weekends. Chronic violations can lead to permit revocation and liquor license review.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Urban Honolulu's outdoor music rules stack up against other locations.
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