New Delhi : Following Uttar Pradesh, the Delhi Police has issued strict guidelines regarding the use of loudspeakers across the city. Under the new rules, all places—including religious sites—must adhere to designated decibel (dB) limits. Using loudspeakers without prior written permission is now prohibited, and violators will face hefty fines.
Separate noise level limits have been set for industrial, residential, and silence zones. Even hiring loudspeakers from tent houses now requires police clearance. According to the directive, public sound levels should not exceed 10 dB(A), while personal audio systems must stay within 5 dB(A) above the ambient limit.
For industrial zones, noise up to 75 dB is allowed between 6 AM and 10 PM, and 70 dB from 10 PM to 6 AM. Residential areas have a limit of 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night. Silence zones are restricted to 50 dB during the day and 40 dB at night.
Police have also warned all tent houses, loudspeaker suppliers, and generator providers not to supply equipment without written permission from local police stations. District DCPs are instructed to ensure full compliance and take legal action against defaulters.
Penalties have been defined clearly:
Improper use of loudspeakers/public address systems will attract a fine of ₹10,000 and seizure of equipment.
For generator sets exceeding 1000 KVA, a fine of ₹1,00,000;
Between 62.5 and 1000 KVA, ₹25,000;
Below 62.5 KVA, ₹10,000.
Using any sound-emitting equipment may lead to a fine of ₹50,000 and confiscation or sealing.
Crackers burst beyond permitted noise levels will also face action.
For violations during religious functions, weddings, or rallies, fines are ₹10,000 (residential areas) and ₹20,000 (silence zones).
