Outdoor Music: Altadena vs Compton
How do outdoor music rules compare between Altadena, CA and Compton, CA?
Compton has fewer restrictions than Altadena.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Chapter 12.08 restricts amplified sound and outdoor music in unincorporated areas to the same exterior noise standards by zone. Loudspeakers and amplified devices are specifically regulated under Section 12.08.450.
View full Altadena rules →Compton, CA
Los Angeles County
Compton Municipal Code Chapter 7 prohibits loud or unreasonable noise from amplified sound, music, and loudspeakers that disturbs the peace and quiet of neighbors, particularly during nighttime hours.
View full Compton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Compton |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | §12.08.450 | CMC Chapter 7 |
| Residential Limit | 50 dBA day / 45 dBA night | - |
| Measurement | At property line | - |
| Fine | Up to $1,000 | - |
| Standard | - | Disturbing peace of neighbors |
| Night Hours | - | Stricter enforcement 10 PM–7 AM |
| Penalty | - | Misdemeanor |
| Report | - | Compton PD: (310) 605-5777 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Can I play amplified music outdoors in unincorporated LA County?
Yes, but the sound cannot exceed exterior noise standards at the neighboring property line — 50 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night in residential zones under Section 12.08.450.
Do I need a permit for an outdoor event with music?
Large outdoor events with amplified sound in unincorporated LA County may require a temporary use permit from the Department of Regional Planning, especially if attendance exceeds normal gathering sizes.
Compton FAQ
Can I play loud music outside in Compton?
Outdoor music must not disturb the peace and quiet of neighbors. Nighttime noise (10 PM-7 AM) is subject to stricter enforcement. Violations are misdemeanors.
What do I do about a loud party in Compton?
Contact the Compton Police Department at (310) 605-5777 to report a noise disturbance.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Compton compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool