Santa Monica, CA Noise from Specific Sources: Car Alarm Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Maximum alarm duration
- 15 minutes
- Clock starts
- From first audible sound, regardless of gaps
- Infraction fine
- $33 maximum
- Escalation to misdemeanor
- After 3 or more prior convictions
Summary
Car alarms may not sound for more than fifteen minutes in Santa Monica; police may enter the vehicle to disconnect an alarm that has exceeded the limit.
§ 3.60.010. Motor vehicle. (b) No person shall cause, allow, permit or suffer any alarm located in a motor vehicle registered in the name of or operated by such person to emit any audible sound in the City of Santa Monica for a period of more than fifteen minutes. The time shall be calculated based upon the emission of the first audible sound and ending fifteen minutes thereafter notwithstanding any variation or delay in the emissions of audible sound. (c) Except as provided in subsection (d), any person violating this Section shall be guilty of an infraction. Any person convicted of an infraction under this Section shall be punishable by a fine of not more than thirty-three dollars. (d) Any person violating this Section who has been previously convicted of three or more violations of this Section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. (e) The Police Department, in order to abate the public nuisance created by a vehicle in violation of this Section, may take such steps as are reasonably necessary to enter the vehicle, disconnect the alarm, and remove the vehicle for safekeeping in the manner permitted by law.
Full Breakdown
The fifteen-minute clock starts from the first audible sound and runs continuously even if the alarm briefly stops and restarts. A first or second offense is an infraction punishable by a $33 fine. After three or more prior convictions for the same violation, the charge is elevated to a misdemeanor. Police may tow the vehicle to abate the nuisance.
Violations & Fines
First-time and repeat (below four convictions) violations: infraction, fine up to $33. After three or more prior convictions: misdemeanor. Police may enter and disconnect the alarm or remove the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
My car alarm went off and I couldn't stop it. Am I in violation?
Can police break into my car to stop the alarm?
What is the fine for a car alarm violation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Monica to another location·View the California noise from specific sources overview
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Car Alarm Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle car alarm limits.