Devices used to produce or reproduce sound (sound devices), in particular loudspeakers, sound reproduction devices, musical instruments and similar devices, may only be used at such a volume that uninvolved persons are not significantly disturbed or the natural environment is not impaired. If this is not the case, the use of such devices is prohibited on public traffic areas, in public facilities and in and on other facilities for general use, on campsites and camping sites, in swimming pools and lidos and in the great outdoors.

These requirements do not apply

• to sound signals to warn of danger,
• prescribed signaling and warning devices,
• liturgical bell ringing and
• devices used in the context of public transport operations.

There are exceptions for the use of sound devices for the purpose of election advertising for European, Bundestag, Landtag or Kommunalwahl elections in the last six weeks before the election by parties or other political associations.

Upon request, the competent authority may grant exceptions in individual cases in the case of public or predominant private interest. In order to protect the general public and the neighborhood, the exception should be granted under certain conditions and be subject to certain requirements. In addition, the competent authority may generally permit temporary (musical) performances in inner-city pedestrian zones.