Ceres, CA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Ceres, 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
- Quiet hours
- 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m.
- Nighttime test
- Audible 50 feet away = violation
- Daytime standard
- Must not disturb neighbors' peace
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor, Title 19 fines
- Enforcing agency
- Ceres Police Department
Summary
Ceres bars radios, stereos, and other amplifying devices from disturbing neighbors' peace at any hour, with a bright-line 11 p.m.-7 a.m. rule: audible 50 feet from the source is automatic proof of a violation.
The using, operating, or permitting to be placed, used or operated by radio receiving set, musical instrument, stereo, or other machine or device for the producing, reproducing, or amplifying sound in such manner as to disturb the peace, quiet and comfort of the neighboring inhabitants at any time with louder volume than is necessary for convenient hearing for the person or persons who are in the room, vehicle or chamber in which such machine or device is operated and who are voluntary listeners thereto. The operation of any such set, instrument, stereo, machine or device between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in such a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet from the building, structure or vehicle in which it is located shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Municipal Code: Supplement 4).
Full Breakdown
Ceres Municipal Code § 9.04.020(B) makes it unlawful to operate any radio, musical instrument, stereo, or other sound-amplifying device loud enough to disturb neighboring inhabitants' peace and comfort at any time of day. Between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., if the sound is plainly audible 50 feet from the building, structure, or vehicle producing it, that alone is prima facie evidence of a violation, no decibel meter needed. The section applies day and night; the nighttime distance test just makes nighttime enforcement automatic. A separate permit system governs amplified sound in city parks and public facilities under § 9.16.110.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor under § 9.04.040, punishable per Title 19; nighttime violations are proven simply by audibility 50 feet from the source, no measurement required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play amplified music in my backyard after 11 p.m. in Ceres?
Is there a decibel limit for outdoor music in Ceres?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ceres
California rules heatmap·Compare Ceres to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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