Los Angeles regulates bar and nightclub noise under LAMC Section 116.01 (loud, unnecessary, and unusual noise) and LAMC 115.02 (amplified sound). The LAPD Noise Enforcement Team specifically handles music from nightclubs. Venues must keep noise from disturbing the peace of any neighborhood.
Los Angeles bars and nightclubs are subject to multiple noise provisions. LAMC Section 116.01 makes it unlawful to willfully make or continue any loud, unnecessary, and unusual noise that disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood or causes discomfort to any reasonable person of normal sensitivity. LAMC Section 115.02 regulates amplified sound, and the LAPD Noise Enforcement Team has specific responsibility for enforcement of music from nightclubs. The Noise Enforcement Team can be reached at 213-996-1250 for complaints about nightclub music, early trash pickups, and early deliveries. Entertainment venues must comply with conditions in their conditional use permits (CUPs), which often include specific noise mitigation requirements such as soundproofing, limited hours of outdoor music, and door closure requirements. The Department of City Planning attaches noise conditions to CUPs for bars and nightclubs in residential proximity. Bass frequencies that penetrate walls into adjacent residences are a frequent enforcement concern. Hollywood, Downtown LA, and other entertainment districts have concentrated enforcement.
Violations of Section 116.01 are misdemeanors. Venues may also face revocation or modification of conditional use permits for repeated noise violations. LAPD can issue citations and the City Attorney may pursue criminal charges for chronic violators. Entertainment licenses may be suspended.
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