Outdoor Music: San Francisco vs San Jose
How do outdoor music rules compare between San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA?
San Jose has fewer restrictions than San Francisco.
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco County
Outdoor amplified music in San Francisco requires an Entertainment Commission Outdoor Amplified Sound Permit and must comply with Police Code Article 29 decibel limits. Block parties, festivals, and restaurant patios all need permits, with strict cutoff times of 10 p.m. weekdays.
View full San Francisco rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
Outdoor amplified music in San Jose is regulated under the noise ordinance and the Special Events permitting process. Residential backyard parties must comply with dBA limits and quiet hours after 10:00 PM. Commercial venues hosting amplified outdoor music require a Special Events or Entertainment Permit through the Office of Cultural Affairs.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Francisco | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Francisco FAQ
San Jose FAQ
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