Decibel Limits: Glendale vs Pasadena
How do decibel limits rules compare between Glendale, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Glendale and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Glendale, CA
Los Angeles County
Glendale enforces presumed ambient noise standards under GMC 8.36.040. Residential (single-family/duplex) zones are limited to 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime exterior. Multifamily residential allows 60 dBA. Commercial zones are set at 65 dBA. Any noise exceeding the presumed ambient plus 5 dBA is a violation.
View full Glendale rules →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena prohibits noise exceeding the ambient level by more than 5 dB at any property line under PMC Section 9.36.050. Construction equipment limited to 85 dBA at 100 feet. Amplified sound on private property cannot exceed 15 dB above ambient. Interior noise in multifamily residential must not exceed 50 dBA.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Glendale | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Day | 55 dBA (single-family) | - |
| Residential Night | 45 dBA | - |
| Multifamily | 60 dBA anytime | - |
| Commercial | 65 dBA anytime | - |
| Code | GMC 8.36.040 | PMC Ch. 9.36 |
| Property Line | - | Ambient + 5 dB max |
| Construction | - | 85 dBA at 100 ft |
| Interior (Multi) | - | 50 dBA |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Glendale FAQ
What is the noise limit in Glendale residential areas?
Single-family and duplex zones: 55 dBA daytime, 45 dBA nighttime. Multifamily zones: 60 dBA anytime. Any noise exceeding the presumed ambient plus 5 dBA is a violation under GMC 8.36.040.
How does Glendale measure noise violations?
Using the A-weighted scale with slow response at the property line. If noise contains a pure tone or impulsive sound, the standard is reduced by 5 dBA.
Pasadena FAQ
What is the noise limit in Pasadena?
Noise cannot exceed the ambient level by more than 5 decibels at any property line under PMC Section 9.36.050. Ambient is measured as a 15-minute average.
What is the construction equipment noise limit?
Individual pieces of construction equipment cannot generate noise exceeding 85 dBA at a distance of 100 feet under Section 9.36.070.
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