Outdoor Music: Downey vs Long Beach
How do outdoor music rules compare between Downey, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Downey has fewer restrictions than Long Beach.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey Municipal Code Section 4600 prohibits noise from radios, musical instruments, loudspeakers, or amplified sound that disturbs neighboring residents, particularly between 10 PM and 7 AM in residential zones.
View full Downey rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach prohibits loudspeakers and amplified sound systems that create a noise disturbance across residential property lines between 10 PM and 7 AM under LBMC 8.80.200. At all other times, amplified sound must comply with exterior noise limits in Section 8.80.150. Variances require Noise Control Office approval.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | DMC §4600 | - |
| Night Restriction | 10 PM–7 AM in residential zones | - |
| Threshold | 100 dBA at 25 ft (prima facie) | - |
| Standard | Disturbing neighboring inhabitants | - |
| Report | Downey PD: (562) 861-0771 | - |
| Prohibited Hours | - | 10 PM-7 AM (residential) |
| Daytime Limit | - | Must meet 50 dBA residential |
| Variance | - | Noise Control Office |
| Code | - | LBMC 8.80.200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
Can I play music outside in Downey?
Outdoor music is allowed but must not disturb neighboring residents. Between 10 PM and 7 AM, amplified sound in residential zones is particularly restricted under Section 4600.
What if my neighbor plays loud music at night?
Contact the Downey Police Department non-emergency line at (562) 861-0771 to file a noise complaint. Officers can issue citations for violations of Section 4600.
Long Beach FAQ
When is amplified music prohibited in Long Beach?
Between 10 PM and 7 AM, loudspeakers and amplified sound devices may not create noise disturbances across residential property lines under LBMC 8.80.200.
Can I get a permit for outdoor amplified music in Long Beach?
Yes. The Noise Control Office can issue variances for temporary exemptions from the noise ordinance. Venues also need an entertainment permit from the city.
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