Amplified Music & Events: Altadena vs Long Beach
How do amplified music & events rules compare between Altadena, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Altadena and Long Beach 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 →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Amplified music in Long Beach is regulated under LBMC Ch. 8.80. Noise that exceeds established decibel levels for the zone is prohibited. Nightclubs and bars with amplified music face additional sound attenuation requirements.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Night | 45 dB (10 PM-7 AM) | - |
| Residential Day | 50 dB (7 AM-10 PM) | - |
| Commercial Use | Restricted near residential | - |
| Reference | Title 12, Chapter 12.08 | - |
| Code | - | LBMC Ch. 8.80 |
| Standard | - | Must not exceed zone dB levels |
| Enforcement | - | Health Dept + LBPD |
| Variances | - | Available from Noise Control Officer |
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.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I play loud music outside in Long Beach?
Amplified music must comply with residential noise limits under LBMC 8.80.150, with an additional 5 dB reduction applied because it contains informational content. Loudspeakers are completely prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM if audible across residential property lines.
What is the decibel limit for music in Long Beach?
Music is subject to standard residential limits minus 5 dB: effectively 45 dBA (L50) daytime and 40 dBA (L50) nighttime at the receiving residential property, per LBMC 8.80.150 and 8.80.160.
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