Outdoor Music: Compton vs Santa Monica
How do outdoor music rules compare between Compton, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Compton has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.
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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 4.12 strictly regulates amplified sound and music. In Noise Zone I (residential), exterior noise may not exceed 60 dBA daytime or 50 dBA nighttime. Music and speech content triggers an automatic 5 dBA reduction. Amplified sound in parks and beaches is banned after 10 PM.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Compton | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | CMC Chapter 7 | - |
| Standard | Disturbing peace of neighbors | - |
| Night Hours | Stricter enforcement 10 PM–7 AM | - |
| Penalty | Misdemeanor | - |
| Report | Compton PD: (310) 605-5777 | - |
| Residential Day | - | 60 dBA (15-min Leq) |
| Residential Night | - | 50 dBA (15-min Leq) |
| Music Penalty | - | -5 dBA reduction |
| Code | - | SMMC §4.12.060, §4.12.080 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I play amplified music at a Santa Monica park?
Only before 10 PM on weekdays and after 8 AM on weekends, and the sound must not exceed the applicable noise zone limits. A Community Event Permit may be required for organized events with amplified sound.
What are the noise limits for music in residential areas?
In Noise Zone I (residential), the 15-minute equivalent limit is 60 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime, reduced by 5 dBA for music content — effectively 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime for music.
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