Can you get a ticket for driving with really loud music? What Charlotte’s laws say
For many music lovers, an aftermarket stereo system complete with an amplifier and subwoofers are the perfect addition to any car. But noisy speakers can be a nuisance for those trying to enjoy some peace and quiet.
While loud music could be considered annoying, is it enough to warrant a ticket from law enforcement? Here’s what Charlotte laws say on the matter.
Can you get a ticket for loud music in your car in Charlotte?
There are no laws that specifically address loud music in cars, but those who blare music from their speakers could risk violating Charlotte’s noise ordinance.
The ordinance says vehicles cannot be “operated in a manner so as to create unreasonably loud and disturbing noises.”
The law also says noise cannot exceed set decibels — which are units of measurement for sound levels during certain times.
The noise ordinance says acceptable noise levels are:
Sunday to Thursday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. at 85 decibels and 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. (the following day) at 60 decibels
Friday and Saturday: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. at 85 decibels and 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. (the following day) at 60 decibels
For reference:
- 60 decibels is as loud as a business office, including normal conversation and laughter.
- 85 decibels is as loud as city traffic, a lawnmower or a motorcycle.
Sounds at 85 decibels can lead to hearing loss if you have sustained exposure to them, and sounds louder than 85 decibels can damage your hearing faster, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association says.
What is the penalty for violating the noise ordinance?
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers may issue a fine of $100 for the first noise violation of any kind, according to the city.
If a second violation occurs within one year of the first violation, police can issue a $500 fine. After that, you could see a $1,000 fine for any third and subsequent violations that occur within one year of the first.
How to report a noise violation in Charlotte
Noise violations can be reported by calling 311 or 704-336-7600 at any time, or 911 if a noise violation is creating a nuisance at the time of the call.
Officers who respond to noise-related calls test the level of sound at a property by using a sound level meter, CMPD says.
This story was originally published August 5, 2024 at 6:00 AM with the headline "Can you get a ticket for driving with really loud music? What Charlotte’s laws say."
