Decibel Limits: Glendale vs Torrance
How do decibel limits rules compare between Glendale, CA and Torrance, CA?
Glendale and Torrance 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 →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Torrance establishes zone-based noise limits under TMC Chapter 46. Region 2 (residential): 65 dBA day / 55 dBA night. Region 1 (near refineries): 70 dBA day / 65 dBA night. Construction limited to 50 dB at property line during permitted hours. Train whistles prohibited above 96 dBA.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Glendale | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Day | 55 dBA (single-family) | 65 dBA (Region 2) |
| Residential Night | 45 dBA | 55 dBA (Region 2) |
| Multifamily | 60 dBA anytime | - |
| Commercial | 65 dBA anytime | - |
| Code | GMC 8.36.040 | - |
| Refinery Area Day | - | 70 dBA (Region 1) |
| Train Whistles | - | 96 dBA max |
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.
Torrance FAQ
What are Torrance's noise limits?
Most residential areas: 65 dB(A) daytime and 55 dB(A) nighttime. Near refineries: 70/65 dB(A). Plus, any noise exceeding ambient by 5+ dB at residential property lines is a prima facie violation.
How do I file a noise complaint in Torrance?
Contact Torrance Noise Abatement at (310) 784-7950 or email noiseabatement@torranceca.gov.
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