Amplified Music & Events: Palm Springs vs Riverside
How do amplified music & events rules compare between Palm Springs, CA and Riverside, CA?
Palm Springs and Riverside have similar restriction levels.
Palm Springs, CA
Riverside County
Palm Springs restricts amplified music at residential properties, vacation rentals, and outdoor spaces under PSMC Ch. 11.74 with strict nighttime decibel limits.
View full Palm Springs rules →Riverside, CA
Riverside County
Under RMC § 7.35.010(D) as amended in 2025, any loud music or noise from sound amplifying equipment or live performance that is plainly audible 25 feet or more from the source property is prohibited at any time.
View full Riverside rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Palm Springs | Riverside |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Audibility rule | - | Plainly audible 25 ft from property = violation |
| Applies | - | Anytime (per 2025 amendment) |
| Code sections | - | RMC §§ 7.35.010(B)(2), 7.35.010(D) |
| Day exterior limit (residential) | - | 55 dBA |
| Night exterior limit (residential) | - | 45 dBA |
| Variance route | - | Chapter 7.40 - Zoning Administrator |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Palm Springs FAQ
Riverside FAQ
Can my backyard speakers play at any volume during the day?
No. Under the 2025 amendment to RMC § 7.35.010(D), if your amplified music is plainly audible 25 feet or more beyond your property line, it is a violation regardless of the time of day.
What changed in 2025?
City Council amended § 7.35.010 to add subsection (D), which extends the prohibition on plainly-audible amplified sound to all hours, not just the previous 10 p.m.-7 a.m. window. § 7.15.010 fines were also reaffirmed at $500/$750/$1,000.
Are concerts and school events exempt?
Yes - § 7.35.020(B) exempts authorized school bands, school athletic and entertainment events, and occasional public/private gatherings between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. A variance under § 7.40.010 is required to run later.
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