Decibel Limits: Downey vs Lakewood
How do decibel limits rules compare between Downey, CA and Lakewood, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Lakewood.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey Municipal Code Section 4600 establishes noise standards. Any noise exceeding 100 decibels at 25 feet or more from the source is a prima facie violation. Power tools and equipment in residential zones are restricted between 10 PM and 7 AM.
View full Downey rules →Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Section 12.08.390 establishes tiered exterior noise standards by zone for unincorporated areas. Residential limits are 50 dBA day and 45 dBA night. Commercial zones allow 60/55 dBA and industrial zones allow 70 dBA at all times.
View full Lakewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Lakewood |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | DMC §4600 | §12.08.390 |
| Prima Facie Limit | 100 dBA at 25 ft | - |
| Restricted Hours | 10 PM–7 AM (residential zones) | - |
| Applies To | R-1, R-2, R-3 zones | - |
| Enforcement | Downey PD: (562) 861-0771 | - |
| Residential Day | - | 50 dBA |
| Residential Night | - | 45 dBA |
| Commercial Day | - | 60 dBA |
| Industrial | - | 70 dBA always |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
What are Downey's noise limits?
Any noise exceeding 100 decibels at 25 feet from the source is a prima facie violation under Section 4600. Power equipment in residential zones is restricted between 10 PM and 7 AM.
Can I use power tools at night in Downey?
No. Power tools, machines, and equipment may not be used in residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3) between 10 PM and 7 AM if the noise disturbs neighbors.
Lakewood FAQ
What are the decibel limits in unincorporated LA County?
Residential areas are limited to 50 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night. Commercial zones allow 60 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime. Industrial zones permit 70 dBA at all times.
How are noise violations measured in LA County?
Noise is measured at the property line of the affected party using the A-weighted decibel scale. Duration matters too — exceeding limits for more than 30 minutes per hour triggers Standard No. 1.
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