Los Angeles vs Palmdale
How do decibel limits rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Los Angeles and Palmdale have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles Municipal Code Chapter XI (Noise Regulation) sets zone-based decibel limits ranging from 45 dBA in residential zones at night to 75 dBA in industrial zones.
View full Los Angeles rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Section 12.08.390 establishes tiered exterior noise standards by zone for unincorporated areas. Residential limits are 50 dBA day and 45 dBA night. Commercial zones allow 60/55 dBA and industrial zones allow 70 dBA at all times.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| Residential night limit | 45 dBA (10pm-7am) | - |
| Residential day limit | 55 dBA (7am-10pm) | - |
| Commercial zone limit | 60-65 dBA | - |
| Industrial zone limit | 65-75 dBA | - |
| Standard | Ambient plus 5 dBA | - |
| Code Section | - | §12.08.390 |
| Residential Day | - | 50 dBA |
| Residential Night | - | 45 dBA |
| Commercial Day | - | 60 dBA |
| Industrial | - | 70 dBA always |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can my neighbor be cited if I hear them through the wall?
Yes. LAMC uses a plainly-audible standard at the property line during night hours, and LAPD can issue citations without a formal sound meter reading when violations are clear.
How do I report a noise violation?
Call LA 311 for non-emergency noise complaints or LAPD non-emergency dispatch for active disturbances. Persistent issues can be referred to the Bureau of Street Services.
Palmdale FAQ
What are the decibel limits in unincorporated LA County?
Residential areas are limited to 50 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night. Commercial zones allow 60 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime. Industrial zones permit 70 dBA at all times.
How are noise violations measured in LA County?
Noise is measured at the property line of the affected party using the A-weighted decibel scale. Duration matters too — exceeding limits for more than 30 minutes per hour triggers Standard No. 1.
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