Entertainment Noise Legislation

Noise has long been an accepted part of the power, excitement and “fun” of the entertainment events and venues we enjoy most. For many, louder is better – in gym spin classes, nightclubs, concert and sports venues, movie theaters – and more. Yet, with higher volumes comes bigger consequences in the form of serious hearing damage and even permanent hearing loss. Local governments are continually listening to the call to curb entertainment noise through legislation and community cooperation to help turn down the volume and make entertainment safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Noise hurts

In 2008, the Swedish cult band Sleazy Joe performed the loudest rock concert ever measuring a bone-rattling 143.2 decibels – the equivalent of standing about 30 yards from a jet fighter engine running at full throttle.

In 2014, 82,000+ fans at Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Kansas City Chiefs, set the world record for the loudest NFL stadium with a crowd roar that measured a blistering 142.2 decibels.

Some recreational activities are dangerously loud and will cause permanent damage to our hearing. Additionally, many recreational activities create loud noises which interfere with the peace and quiet of the community.

According to the Noise Awareness Day 2025 website, noise is one of the leading causes of hearing loss among the 466 million people around the world living with a moderate to severe hearing loss. While noise exposure can damage the hearing of people of any age, research has shown that young people are increasingly at risk due to recreational activities involving music. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that 1.1 billion young people (aged 12-35 years) are at risk of hearing loss due to exposure to noise in recreational settings.

View sample entertainment noise legislation >

How loud is too loud?

To know if a sound is loud enough to cause damage to your ears, it is important to know both the level of intensity (measured in decibels, dBA) and the length of exposure to the sound. In general, the louder the sound, the less time required before hearing will be affected. Experts agree that continued exposure to noise above 85 dBA will eventually harm your hearing. While regulations exist to protect a person’s hearing in the workplace, similar regulations do not exist to protect the public’s hearing in recreational activities. Further, the noise emitted from many recreational activities, at levels well below 85 dBA, has been found to negatively impact the health and quality of life of neighboring community members.

Some examples of dangerously loud recreational activities

Noise levels at video arcades can be as high as 110 dBA.
Firecrackers create sound levels from 125 – 155 dBA at an average distance of 10 feet.
Sound levels at live music concerts can be measured at 120 dBA and beyond.
The noise level of gunshots can be measured at 150 dBA -167 dBA and hearing loss can result from just a few shots of a high-powered gun, if appropriate hearing protection is not worn.
Noise levels at movie theaters have been measured up to 118 dBA.
Sound levels in health clubs and aerobic studios can be as high as 120 dBA.
Personal stereo systems with headphones produce sounds as loud as 105 – 120 dBA if turned up to maximum levels.
Sound levels at a sporting event can be measured up to 127 dBA.
Many children’s toys emit sounds which are measured at 135 dBA -150 dBA.

Noise codes are helping to turn down the volume

According to Legal Match, noise codes are rules that restrict the amount of noise that may be made in a specified area at certain times. These ordinances usually establish maximum decibel levels for various noise sources, such as music, automobile alarms, and construction.

Who enforces Noise Code Laws?

Enforcement of noise code laws typically falls under the jurisdiction of local government entities, such as city councils, municipalities, or county governments. They may delegate the responsibility to various departments or agencies, such as police departments or environmental health departments.

Types of Noise Code Laws

Noise code laws can vary from one jurisdiction to another. However, some common types of regulations include:

Noise Limitations: These laws define specific permissible noise levels for different types of land uses and activities. They often establish decibel limits for specific times of day or night.
Prohibited Acts: These laws identify certain activities or behaviors that are considered noise disturbances and are prohibited.
Exemptions: Some noise code laws may provide exemptions for certain activities or events, such as public celebrations, parades, or emergency situations. These exemptions are typically granted with the understanding that they will not unduly disrupt the community.

Consequences of Violating Noise Code Laws

Violations of noise code laws can result in penalties and fines. The specific consequences will depend on the jurisdiction and the severity of the violation. Repeat offenders or those who engage in particularly disruptive behavior may face more severe penalties, including potential legal action.

Compliance and Best Practices

Adhering to noise regulations and implementing best practices can help prevent foster a positive community environment.

Community Engagement: Engaging with the local community and addressing their concerns proactively can help build goodwill and reduce the likelihood of complaints.
Regular Monitoring: Regularly monitoring noise levels and ensuring compliance with local regulations can help identify potential issues early and prevent violations.

A comprehensive list of noise laws and ordinances in the US can be found at NoNoise.org.

Useful examples of entertainment noise legislation from the eCode360^® Library

If your community is interested in drafting or updating legislation related to entertainment noise in your community, here are some useful examples that can be found in our eCode360 Library:

Is your code on a schedule?

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