Amplified Music & Events: Altadena vs Compton
How do amplified music & events rules compare between Altadena, CA and Compton, CA?
Altadena and Compton have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Amplified music and sound devices in unincorporated LA County are regulated under Chapter 12.08 (Noise Control). Residential areas: 45 dB nighttime (10 PM-7 AM), 50 dB daytime. Sound amplifying equipment in or within 500 ft of residential zones is restricted for commercial purposes.
View full Altadena rules →Compton, CA
Los Angeles County
Amplified music and sound devices are regulated in Compton under nuisance and disturbing-the-peace provisions. CA Penal Code 415 applies as a fallback for extreme noise disturbances. LA County noise standards (45 dB night/50 dB day residential) may apply.
View full Compton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Compton |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Night | 45 dB (10 PM-7 AM) | 45 dB limit (county standard) |
| Residential Day | 50 dB (7 AM-10 PM) | 50 dB limit (county standard) |
| Commercial Use | Restricted near residential | - |
| Reference | Title 12, Chapter 12.08 | - |
| State Law | - | PC 415 disturbing the peace |
| Enforcement | - | LA County Sheriff, Compton Station |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
What are the noise hours for amplified music in LA County?
Amplified sound must not be audible beyond the property line between 10 PM and 7 AM weekdays, or 10 PM and 8 AM weekends. Daytime amplified sound cannot exceed 5 dB above ambient noise at the property line.
Do I need a permit for a party with amplified music?
Not for an occasional private party that stays within noise limits. Large events or recurring parties may require a Temporary Use Permit from the Department of Regional Planning at (213) 974-6411.
How do I file a noise complaint about amplified music?
Call the LA County Sheriff's non-emergency line at (323) 267-4800 for immediate noise disturbances. For ongoing issues, file a code enforcement complaint at (888) 756-2700.
Compton FAQ
Can I play loud music outdoors in Compton?
Amplified music that disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood is a nuisance violation under CMC Chapter 7. There are no specific decibel limits, but the noise must not be objectionable to neighbors.
How do I file a noise complaint about loud music in Compton?
Contact the LA County Sheriff's Department Compton Station at (310) 605-6500 or call the non-emergency line. Deputies follow LASD loud party disturbance protocols.
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