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Bishop, CA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Amplified music rules in Bishop, CA, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.

Key Facts

Advertising sound
Prohibited (8.12.020(C))
Outdoor amplified music
Not to disturb neighbors
Night test
Audible 50 ft, 10 p.m.-8 a.m.
Code section
BMC 8.12.020(B),(C)
Loudspeakers
Regulated outdoors

Summary

Bishop bars casting amplified sound onto the street for commercial advertising and prohibits any outdoor music or sound device that disturbs neighbors. Nighttime outdoor sound plainly audible 50 feet away is presumptively unlawful.

Loudspeakers, amplifiers for advertising. The playing, using or operating... of any radio, receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, loudspeaker, sound amplifier or other machine or device for the production or reproduction of sound, which is cast upon the street for the purpose of commercial advertising, or attracting the attention of the public to any building or structure.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 4).

Full Breakdown

Two provisions of Bishop Municipal Code § 8.12.020 govern outdoor sound. Subsection (C) prohibits operating any radio, instrument, loudspeaker or sound amplifier 'which is cast upon the street for the purpose of commercial advertising, or attracting the attention of the public to any building or structure.' Subsection (B) prohibits any amplified sound that disturbs neighbors and makes sound plainly audible 50 feet away between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. prima facie unlawful. Together these cover patios, yards, storefronts and event sound: outdoor music is allowed only where it neither disturbs neighbors nor is used as street advertising. Amplified events on public property may also require city permission.

Violations & Fines

Prohibited noises under BMC 8.12.020(B)-(C); abatable and citable, especially advertising sound cast onto public streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Bishop business play music out onto the sidewalk?
Not for advertising or to attract public attention; casting amplified sound onto the street for that purpose is prohibited under BMC 8.12.020(C).
Can I have amplified music in my backyard?
Only if it does not disturb neighbors; at night, sound plainly audible 50 feet away is presumptively a violation.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bishop

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All Bishop rules

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