Prague City to Debate Noise Limits for Late-Night Concerts

Prague City is revisiting the idea of limiting noise from concerts after 10:00 p.m.

City councilor Adam Zábranský (Piráti) revealed plans to draft a new decree addressing the issue and introduce a citywide regulation that includes specific exceptions for designated areas.

Addressing a Recurring Issue

The debate over concert noise intensified during the pandemic when protective measures led to performances being relocated from Lucerna Music Bar to Prague Open Air in Braník. Nearby residents complained about the frequent loud music, prompting then-councilor for legislation, Hana Kordová Marvanová, to propose a regulation limiting noise.

Zábranský now seeks inspiration from similar noise ordinances in other Czech cities, where regulations are already in place for larger metropolitan areas.

He proposes extending the ban on certain events, such as concerts, across Prague after 10:00 p.m., with potential exceptions allowing activities until 11:00 p.m. in less noise-sensitive zones.

Balancing Noise Control and Cultural Events

Zábranský suggests defining exceptions for specific locations where noise complaints are less likely, striking a balance between maintaining cultural events and respecting residents’ rights.

“There is an agreement that a specific regulation is necessary because the current situation is unsatisfactory,” Zábranský explained.

He emphasized that the decree would directly address music-related noise, preventing operators from disputing that music does not qualify as noise—a common argument currently used.

However, he acknowledged that finalizing the regulation’s details would involve challenging negotiations.

Would you like us to write about your business? Find out more