Colusa County, CA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Events (2026)

Chapter 13 (Ord. No. 730) devotes Sections 13-10 through 13-16 to amplified sound. Under Section 13-11, it is unlawful to install, use, or operate a loudspeaker or sound amplifying equipment (fixed, movable, or mounted on a sound truck) in any street, park, or public place, or in connection with outdoor or indoor public or private events attended by more than 100 persons where noise will be audible at the property plane, without first filing a registration statement and obtaining the Sheriff's approval. The application must be filed with the Sheriff at least 16 days and no more than 120 days before the event (Section 13-13) and must identify the operator, equipment, dates/times, and an on-site person who can lower the volume. Section 13-16 sets conditions: an approved event is exempt from the Table No. 1 limits in Section 13-6 but remains subject to the absolute cap in Section 13-7; exemptions last until midnight in residential zones and 12:30 a.m. in other zones on weekend or pre-holiday nights, otherwise until 10 p.m.; sound amplifying equipment may not be used more than four total hours within any 24-hour period; and the only sounds permitted are music or human speech. Applicants must give written notice to residents within 200 yards at least 14 days in advance, and approvals can be appealed to the Board of Supervisors. Outdoor school athletic events, graduations, and large indoor assembly-hall events are exempt from the registration requirement.