Amplified music rules in San Luis Obispo County, CA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Amplified music in unincorporated San Luis Obispo County is regulated under County Code Section 23.06.044, which reduces the applicable exterior noise limit by 5 dB when the noise consists primarily of speech or music. Temporary events with amplified sound require a Minor Use Permit and a noise study per Section 23.08.248.
Section 23.06.044 of the County Code reduces the otherwise applicable exterior noise standards by 5 dB for 'simple tone noises, noises consisting primarily of speech or music, or for recurring impulsive noises' - meaning amplified music at a receiving residential property is limited to roughly 45 dBA Leq during the day and 40 dBA Leq at night. For organized events with amplified sound, Section 23.08.248 (Temporary Events) requires a land-use permit. The county's Department of Planning and Building requires applicants to submit a noise study identifying the impact of amplified sound on surrounding properties and methods to ensure compliance with County Code Section 22.10.120 (non-coastal) or 23.06.040 (coastal). Temporary events generally require a Minor Use Permit; events on properties with fewer than two public access points may require a Conditional Use Permit.
Operating amplified sound above the adjusted (-5 dB) noise standard is a violation of Chapter 23.06 and enforceable through county code enforcement. Operating a temporary event with amplified sound without the required permit is a violation of Section 23.08.248 enforceable by code enforcement and may also subject the host to Penal Code Section 415 'disturbing the peace' charges.
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