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

Amplified sound is one of the noises Amador County's public nuisance noise ordinance (Chapter 9.44) calls out by name. The ordinance lists emitting or transmitting any loud music or noise from an amplifying device among the examples of noise that, when plainly audible from a neighboring property between ten p.m. and seven a.m., constitutes a prima facie violation. More broadly, it is unlawful to make any disturbing, excessive, or offensive noise within the unincorporated county at any hour. The chapter applies to residential uses, short-term rentals (treated as a residential use), wineries, tasting rooms, and event locations, which is significant in Amador County's wine country where the Shenandoah Valley hosts many tasting rooms and event venues. Commercial and industrial uses are not covered by this chapter. There is no decibel limit; the county evaluates the noise level, ambient noise, proximity to homes, time, and duration. Enforcement is by the Sheriff and through administrative citations, and a property owner can be held responsible for violations on their property regardless of their relationship to the person who caused the noise, which is aimed at short-term rental and event-venue hosts. Anyone hosting amplified music at a residence, rental, or event venue should keep it inaudible at the property line during nighttime hours.