No Loud Music Without Clearance: Delhi Tightens Noise Control Laws

In a major move to curb rising noise pollution, Delhi Police has introduced stricter regulations on the use of loudspeakers and audio equipment across the city. The new directive mandates prior written permission for using loudspeakers or public address systems and expands accountability to equipment suppliers and civic authorities.

Under the updated rules, no loudspeaker or sound system can be used without approval from the relevant authority as per the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules. Violators will face criminal charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Sections 270 (nuisance), 292 (public nuisance), and 293 (continuance of nuisance after warning).

Tighter Limits and Stricter Enforcement

The revised norms reduce the permissible noise limit to no more than 5 dBA above ambient noise at the boundary of private properties using sound equipment—down from the earlier 10 dBA allowance for public spaces.

Suppliers of tents, generators, and sound systems are now required to verify written permission before providing services. District DCPs have been instructed to strictly enforce this and take legal action against non-compliant vendors.

Civic bodies like BSES Rajdhani, BSES Yamuna, NDPL, and local authorities must now obtain police clearance before supplying electricity or setting up infrastructure for public or private events.

No Loudspeakers at Night—Except Indoors

The order reinforces a complete ban on outdoor sound systems between 10 PM and 6 AM, with exceptions only for indoor venues like community halls, auditoriums, or during public emergencies.

The directive also calls for resident welfare associations (RWAs) and market associations to be sensitized to the updated regulations, highlighting the possibility of legal action for violations.

Delhi University to Regulate Festival Music Volume

Amid complaints about disruptions during annual college festivals, Delhi University has announced a new panel to set music volume limits at events. “Several colleges reported that loud music disrupts classes and inconveniences nearby residents,” said DU Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh. The expert-led panel will help strike a balance between student celebrations and community well-being.