Michigan Noise Ordinances: What You Should Know

In Michigan, noise ordinances are handled primarily at the local (city or township) level. That means what's perfectly acceptable in one area could result in a citation or criminal charge in another. Most communities, including towns like Plymouth, Canton, and Livonia, have laws regulating noise during certain hours—usually between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

Violating these ordinances can result in a civil infraction or, in repeated or extreme cases, even a misdemeanor. Examples of noise ordinance violations include:

• Loud music that disturbs neighbors
• Screaming or yelling outdoors late at night
• Fireworks being set off outside permitted dates
• Improper use of amplifiers or sound systems

If the police are called to your home or party due to a noise complaint, they may issue a verbal warning. If law enforcement returns a second or third time, you could be facing more than just a fine.

Can You Be Charged with a Crime Over a Party?

Yes. It's more common than you think.

Here's how it works: many charges associated with parties or loud gatherings fall under what's known as disorderly conduct. Under Michigan law (MCL 750.167), disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor offense and includes a variety of obnoxious or disruptive behaviors, including:

• Public intoxication
• Quarreling or fighting in public
• Creating or maintaining a public nuisance
• Refusing to leave a premises when asked by the property owner
• Obstructing others' enjoyment of public spaces

If your party gets out of hand—loud arguments spill into the street, or intoxicated guests disturb the neighborhood—you or even your guests could be cited for disorderly conduct. Don’t think of it as a mere ticket. Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.

If Alcohol is at Your Party, Are You Liable?

Absolutely. Michigan has strict laws when it comes to supplying alcohol to minors. If anyone under 21 is found drinking at a party you’re hosting, you could be facing serious consequences—even if you didn't personally hand them the drink.

Supplying Alcohol to Minors

Under MCL 436.1701, it is illegal to provide alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age. A first offense can lead to up to 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. If that minor is injured or worse, the penalties escalate rapidly—including potential felony charges.

Minor in Possession (MIP)

Minors themselves are not spared. A person under 21 caught possessing or consuming alcohol may face Minor in Possession charges, which carry penalties including fines, community service, mandatory substance abuse education, and the possibility of a misdemeanor record.

If you’re a parent hosting a graduation party or social gathering for your teen and friends—be careful. “Everybody’s doing it” is not a legal defense. Awareness and preparation go a long way.

Is Your Bonfire Actually Legal?

Michigan cities and townships each have rules when it comes to open burning. In general, small recreational bonfires are usually allowed in private residences, but often certain conditions must be met:

• The fire must be in a fire pit or container designed for recreational fires
• The fire should not exceed a certain size (often 3 feet wide by 3 feet high)
• The fire must be at least 25 feet away from structures or combustible materials
• A responsible adult must supervise the fire at all times

If your party bonfire gets out of control, or if embers travel and start a brush fire or damage property, police and fire services may respond—and that could escalate into reckless behavior charges, fire code violations, or destruction of property. All of which may carry criminal penalties.

What Happens If You Resist or Disobey the Police?

Michigan law is very clear when it comes to interfering with the duties of law enforcement. Even a seemingly minor act—slamming the door in an officer’s face or refusing to turn down the music when requested—can result in an escalation of the situation.

The criminal charge most associated with conflicts at party scenes is Resisting and Obstructing a Police Officer (MCL 750.81d). This is a felony offense punishable by up to two years in prison. You don’t have to physically attack an officer to be charged. Verbal abuse, refusal to follow lawful commands, or pretending to comply but stalling can suffice.

Other Criminal Charges Associated with Parties

Depending on what happens at the party, you or your guests could be looking at other criminal charges. These may include:

• Underage Drinking/Drug Use: As we covered earlier, MIP charges are common. If drugs are involved, there could be additional felony charges, especially if distribution is alleged.
• Assault and Battery: If a fight breaks out and injuries occur, participants may be charged with assault. Even pushing someone or making a threat can meet the elements of an assault charge under Michigan law.
• Littering or Illegal Dumping: Parties often result in trash being scattered around public or private property. This can lead to fines or even environmental citations.
• Trespassing: If guests wander onto neighboring property—or if the party itself is held without permission—this could result in trespassing charges.

It doesn’t take much for a relaxed evening to turn into a serious legal problem. And if you're on probation, parole, or have any prior criminal charges, even a minor current charge could lead to harsher consequences.

What Should You Do If You’re Charged?

Whether you've received a civil infraction for noise, or you've been charged with something more serious like disorderly conduct or supplying alcohol to minors, you need to take the situation seriously. Every criminal charge has long-term implications—especially if you’re young and facing your first run-in with the police.

Your best move? Talk to an experienced Michigan criminal defense lawyer immediately. At Boria Law, we’ve helped countless clients deal with these types of charges throughout Wayne County, Canton, Plymouth, Livonia, and surrounding areas. We know the courts, the judges, and how to best position your defense.

If you’ve received a ticket, citation, or been formally charged, contact criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806. Your consultation is free, and you’ll talk directly with a lawyer—no middlemen, no call centers.

You can also visit our criminal defense homepage for more information about our services and past case results.

Conclusion

Bonfires, parties, and loud music might be part of Michigan’s summer charm, but when the police are involved, they can quickly become legal nightmares. Understanding local ordinances, being cautious when alcohol is involved, and cooperating if things go sideways can go a long way toward keeping you out of trouble.

But if you do find yourself facing charges, don’t leave your future to chance. Michigan law treats even "minor" offenses quite seriously, especially when minors, alcohol, fire, or resistance are involved. Legal penalties can be severe—and often, they come with a permanent public record. If you’ve been accused of disorderly conduct, MIP, supplying alcohol to minors, or any other criminal offense at a party, don’t wait.

Call criminal defense lawyer Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806 for a free consultation today.

We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight to protect your future.