Outdoor Music: Long Beach vs West Covina
How do outdoor music rules compare between Long Beach, CA and West Covina, CA?
West Covina has fewer restrictions than Long Beach.
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 →West Covina, CA
Los Angeles County
West Covina's noise ordinance restricts amplified sound and music in residential zones. Music or amplified sound audible at 50 feet from the property line is presumed a violation. Noise standards are reduced by 5 dB when the sound contains music or speech. Evening and nighttime hours carry stricter enforcement.
View full West Covina rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | West Covina |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited Hours | 10 PM-7 AM (residential) | - |
| Daytime Limit | Must meet 50 dBA residential | - |
| Variance | Noise Control Office | - |
| Code | LBMC 8.80.200 | WCMC §15-94 |
| Music Standard | - | -5 dB from base level |
| Quiet Hours | - | 10 PM – 7 AM |
| Audibility Test | - | 50 ft from property line |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
West Covina FAQ
Can I play music outdoors in West Covina?
Yes, but if it is audible at 50 feet from your property line, it is presumed a violation. The noise standard is automatically reduced by 5 dB for music. During quiet hours (10 PM to 7 AM), any disturbing noise is subject to enforcement.
Do I need a permit for an outdoor event with amplified sound?
Residential gatherings do not require permits but must comply with noise standards. Commercial entertainment events may need a conditional use permit from the Planning Division.
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