Amplified Music & Events: Carson vs Compton
How do amplified music & events rules compare between Carson, CA and Compton, CA?
Compton has fewer restrictions than Carson.
Carson, CA
Los Angeles County
Amplified music, loudspeakers, and sound trucks in Carson are regulated under LA County Code §12.08.490 (Sound Trucks and Amplified Sound) and §12.08.530 (Plainly Audible Standard), adopted by reference through CMC Art. 4 Ch. 5. Plainly-audible amplified sound from 50 feet away in residential areas is prohibited from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
View full Carson 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 | Carson | Compton |
|---|---|---|
| Plainly-audible rule | Audible at 50 ft = violation between 10 p.m.-7 a.m. | - |
| Sound truck permit | Required under LA County §12.08.490 | - |
| Governing code | LA County Code §12.08.490 / §12.08.530 (via CMC Art. 4 Ch. 5) | - |
| CUP venues | Subject to additional conditions under CMC Art. IX Zoning | - |
| Enforcement | LA County Sheriff - Carson Station + Code Enforcement | LA County Sheriff, Compton Station |
| Residential Night | - | 45 dB limit (county standard) |
| Residential Day | - | 50 dB limit (county standard) |
| State Law | - | PC 415 disturbing the peace |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carson FAQ
Can I have a DJ at my backyard party?
Yes, during permissible hours (before 10 p.m.), provided the amplified sound is not plainly audible at 50 feet from your property line. After 10 p.m. it must be brought inside or shut down.
Do I need a permit for amplified sound at a public event?
Yes. LA County Code §12.08.490 requires a sound-amplifying device permit for public-place amplification. Apply through Carson City Hall / LA County Sheriff.
What about concerts at Dignity Health Sports Park?
Stadium events operate under separate noise-mitigation conditions tied to the CSU Dominguez Hills CUP and CEQA findings - not the general residential noise ordinance.
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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