Colorado Statewide Rule

Colorado Amplified Sound Treated as Public Nuisance

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Colorado (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: C.R.S. 25-12-108
Standard: Public nuisance if over limit
Periodic noise penalty: +5 dB(A) treatment
Private right of action: Yes, injunctive relief
Applies to: All amplified sources statewide

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: C.R.S. 18-9-106 - Disorderly conduct

Summary

Colorado treats unreasonably loud amplified music as a public nuisance enforceable statewide under the Noise Abatement Act, while leaving venue licensing and event permits to local control.

(11) This article is not applicable to the use of property by this state, any political subdivision of this state, or any other entity not organized for profit, including, but not limited to, nonprofit corporations, or any of their lessees, licensees, or permittees, for the purpose of promoting, producing, or holding cultural, entertainment, athletic, or patriotic events, including, but not limited to, concerts, music festivals, and fireworks displays. This subsection (11) shall not be construed to preempt or limit the authority of any political subdivision having jurisdiction to regulate noise abatement.

Source: C.R.S. 18-9-106 - Disorderly conductView official code

Full Breakdown

Under C.R.S. 25-12-108, sound levels exceeding the limits in C.R.S. 25-12-103 are declared a public nuisance, and any person affected may bring suit to enjoin the noise. Amplified music, sound trucks, and outdoor speaker systems must comply with the applicable zone-based dB(A) limits at the property line. Periodic or impulsive sounds, including bass-heavy amplified music, are evaluated at 5 dB(A) higher than measured. The state framework applies uniformly to private events, commercial venues, and outdoor concerts unless covered by a specific local permit or temporary variance issued by a home rule city.

Violations & Penalties

Affected persons may seek injunctions and damages; local code enforcement can issue civil citations, and repeat amplified-noise nuisances can lead to venue licensing consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is loud amplified music illegal in Colorado?

Amplified music that exceeds the dB(A) limits in C.R.S. 25-12-103 is a public nuisance under C.R.S. 25-12-108, and affected neighbors can sue to stop it.

Can I sue a neighbor over loud music in Colorado?

Yes. C.R.S. 25-12-108 grants any affected person standing to seek injunctive relief against ongoing noise that violates the statutory decibel limits.

Sources

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