Amplified Music & Events: Downey vs Glendale
How do amplified music & events rules compare between Downey, CA and Glendale, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Glendale.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey prohibits amplified music that exceeds ambient noise levels by more than 5 dBA at the property line. Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM carry stricter limits.
View full Downey rules →Glendale, CA
Los Angeles County
Amplified sound in Glendale requires registration and approval per GMC 8.36 Article II. Sound-amplifying equipment limited to 7 AM-10 PM (no commercial use on Sundays/holidays). Volume cannot exceed 15 dBA above ambient at the property line. Entertainment venues above 95 dBA must post warnings.
View full Glendale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Glendale |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Ambient +5 dBA at property line | - |
| Quiet Hours | 10 PM - 7 AM | - |
| Enforcement | Code Enforcement / Police | - |
| State Fallback | CA Penal Code 415 | - |
| Registration | - | Required for public use |
| Hours | - | 7 AM-10 PM |
| Limit | - | 15 dBA above ambient |
| Venue Warning | - | Required above 95 dBA |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
Can I play amplified music at a Downey party?
Music must not be audible at 50 feet after 10 PM. Any noise exceeding 100 dB at 25 feet is an automatic violation at any time.
Are loudspeakers regulated in Downey?
Yes. Section 4603 specifically regulates loudspeakers and amplifiers used for advertising. Section 4604 covers outdoor paging systems.
Glendale FAQ
When must amplified music stop in Glendale?
Amplified sound equipment in residential zones must cease by 10 PM under the Glendale Noise Control Ordinance GMC 8.36.
Can I play loud music at my business?
Sound amplifying equipment at businesses may not exceed 95 dBA. All sound must comply with the ambient-plus-5-dBA standard.
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