Amplified Music & Events: Daly City vs San Mateo
How do amplified music & events rules compare between Daly City, CA and San Mateo, CA?
Daly City and San Mateo have similar restriction levels.
Daly City, CA
San Mateo County
Amplified music in unincorporated San Mateo County is regulated by County Code Chapter 4.88 Noise Control, which caps exterior noise at 55-75 dBA daytime and 50-70 dBA nighttime at neighboring residential property lines. Outdoor events with amplified sound require a Special Events Permit from the Sheriff and/or Planning Department, and operators must comply with CEQA noise analysis for new entertainment venues.
View full Daly City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
San Mateo regulates amplified sound under SMMC Section 7.30.080. Handheld amplified sound equipment cannot exceed 10 watts. All amplified sound must comply with the maximum permissible sound levels in Section 7.30.040. Residential Noise Zone 1 limits are 50 dB at night and 60 dB during the day.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Daly City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| County Code | §4.88.330 and §4.88.350 | - |
| Daytime | 55 to 75 dBA (duration-based) | - |
| Nighttime | 50 to 70 dBA | - |
| Events | Special Events Permit required | 80 dB at 50 ft with city approval |
| CEQA | Applies to new venues | - |
| Handheld Limit | - | 10 watts maximum |
| Zone 1 Night | - | 50 dB (10 PM–7 AM) |
| Zone 1 Day | - | 60 dB (7 AM–10 PM) |
| Code Reference | - | SMMC §7.30.080 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Daly City FAQ
How do I report amplified music from a neighbor's party?
Call the San Mateo County Sheriff's non-emergency line at (650) 363-4911 for active disturbances. For ongoing commercial venue noise, file a complaint with County Planning & Building code enforcement at (650) 363-4161.
Do I need a permit for a backyard wedding with a DJ?
A small private event using reasonable amplification within the Chapter 4.88 daytime dBA limits does not require a permit, but if attendance exceeds typical residential use or amplification extends past 10 PM, a Special Events Permit is recommended and neighbors should be notified.
San Mateo FAQ
Can I play amplified music outdoors in San Mateo?
Yes, but sound levels must not exceed the limits for your noise zone. Residential Zone 1 limits are 50 dB at night and 60 dB during the day.
Are there wattage limits on speakers?
Handheld amplified equipment cannot exceed 10 watts under SMMC Section 7.30.080.
Can events have louder music?
Approved sound performances and special events may operate at up to 80 dB measured at 50 feet with city authorization.
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