Amplified Music & Events: Altadena vs Torrance
How do amplified music & events rules compare between Altadena, CA and Torrance, CA?
Altadena and Torrance 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 →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Amplified sound must not exceed 15 dBA above ambient at property lines. On Sundays/holidays, amplified sound limited to 10 AM-6 PM. Must stay 200 ft from churches, schools, hospitals.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Limit | - | 15 dBA above ambient |
| Sun/Holiday Hours | - | 10 AM-6 PM only |
| Buffer Zone | - | 200 ft from churches/schools/hospitals |
| Standard | - | Not unreasonably loud/raucous |
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.
Torrance FAQ
How loud can I play music in Torrance?
Music cannot exceed the ambient noise level by more than 5 dBA at the residential property line under TMC Chapter 6.
What about apartment noise in Torrance?
The same 5 dBA above ambient standard applies within adjoining apartments in condominiums and apartment buildings.
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