Lakewood vs Santa Monica
How do outdoor music rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Lakewood and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Chapter 12.08 restricts amplified sound and outdoor music in unincorporated areas to the same exterior noise standards by zone. Loudspeakers and amplified devices are specifically regulated under Section 12.08.450.
View full Lakewood rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 4.12 strictly regulates amplified sound and music. In Noise Zone I (residential), exterior noise may not exceed 60 dBA daytime or 50 dBA nighttime. Music and speech content triggers an automatic 5 dBA reduction. Amplified sound in parks and beaches is banned after 10 PM.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | §12.08.450 | - |
| Residential Limit | 50 dBA day / 45 dBA night | - |
| Measurement | At property line | - |
| Fine | Up to $1,000 | - |
| Residential Day | - | 60 dBA (15-min Leq) |
| Residential Night | - | 50 dBA (15-min Leq) |
| Music Penalty | - | -5 dBA reduction |
| Code | - | SMMC §4.12.060, §4.12.080 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
Can I play amplified music outdoors in unincorporated LA County?
Yes, but the sound cannot exceed exterior noise standards at the neighboring property line — 50 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night in residential zones under Section 12.08.450.
Do I need a permit for an outdoor event with music?
Large outdoor events with amplified sound in unincorporated LA County may require a temporary use permit from the Department of Regional Planning, especially if attendance exceeds normal gathering sizes.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I play amplified music at a Santa Monica park?
Only before 10 PM on weekdays and after 8 AM on weekends, and the sound must not exceed the applicable noise zone limits. A Community Event Permit may be required for organized events with amplified sound.
What are the noise limits for music in residential areas?
In Noise Zone I (residential), the 15-minute equivalent limit is 60 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime, reduced by 5 dBA for music content — effectively 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime for music.
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