English edition · Noise and measurement
A framework, not a new law
The DVG advisory note, “Guideline for nuisance noise standards for music events,” was prepared in March 2015 and entered into effect as a reference framework on 1 June 2015. It aims to limit noise nuisance and hearing damage and to support regulation and enforcement.
The note is not the same as a new national ordinance. The current permit and the competent authorities determine how the rules apply in a specific situation.
Examples in the guideline
For jump-ins, the note describes measurement at or near the boundary of the location. Before midnight it describes a one-minute LAeq range of 90 to 100 dB(A); after midnight, 85 to 95 dB(A). The precise value depends on the location, the type of venue and the presence of homes.
For jump-ups and carnival processions, it refers to a maximum of 90 dB(A) LAeq over one minute, measured ten metres perpendicular to the edge of the road. For open-air concerts, the permit application should state the distance between the loudspeakers and the first audience row; the note refers to 90 dB(A) at the first row.
Indoor events need a representative measurement point
For enclosed places such as clubs, cafés, tents, fitness spaces, dinners and religious activities with amplified music, the guideline describes 90 dB(A) LAeq over fifteen minutes and a maximum of 93 dB(A) LAeq over sixty minutes.
The measurement point should represent the people exposed, and the volume should be visible to the person operating the music. The method matters: A-weighting, the Fast response time, a one-minute measurement period and a height of 1.5 metres are described for event measurements.
Prevention and enforcement
The guideline describes an event measurement team of at least two people: one for measuring and recording, and one for backup and communication with the music team or police. It also recommends sufficient distance between audiences and speakers, suitable placement of full-range speakers and subwoofers, and free earplugs with at least 30 dB attenuation.
For enclosed places, an acoustic study and sound mapping by a recognised sound specialist may be needed. If rules are breached, the note describes an escalating approach: warning, official report and, ultimately, stopping the music. It also mentions possible fines and future permit consequences, subject to application by the competent authority.
Plan before the event
Organisers, nearby residents and workers can request information about professional sound measurement through Ishwar Daryanani. Measurement can help check permit conditions, prevent problems and give a complaint a factual basis.
This English edition is general information, not legal, technical or medical advice for a specific event.
This page is an English translation/adaptation of the original Amigoe Aruba article. It is general information and should not be treated as legal, technical or medical advice.