Amplified music rules in Chico, CA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Amplified sound at public-property special events requires a permit application filed at least 14 days in advance (CMC §9.38.080). Vehicle-mounted sound systems are banned if audible more than 50 ft in public parks/parking lots or 25 ft on private property. Outside permitted events, residential 70/60 dBA limits and the §9.38.052 unreasonable-noise rule apply.
CMC §9.38.080 authorizes the City to grant exemptions by permit for special events on public property that produce noise via mechanical or amplifying equipment. The applicant must file at least 14 days before the event; the permit specifies allowed dB level, hours, and conditions. This is the mechanism used for concerts in Bidwell Park, downtown street festivals, and CSU Chico events. Vehicle-based amplification is separately regulated: operating a sound amplification system in a vehicle is prohibited if the sound is audible more than 50 feet away in public parks or parking lots, or more than 25 feet away on private property. On private residential property, amplified backyard music and party speakers must remain under the §9.38.030 caps (70 dBA day / 60 dBA night at the property line). The §9.38.052 unreasonable-noise rule provides a backstop and does not require a sound-level meter for enforcement — this is the primary tool used for nuisance-party calls in the south-campus CSU Chico neighborhood.
Unpermitted public-event amplification or violations of permit conditions are cited under CMC §9.38.054. Vehicle audio violations carry separate citation. Residential party noise is typically handled via §9.38.052 with a warning escalating to citation.
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