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

Amplified sound in the unincorporated county is regulated mainly through Section 36.414. Section 36.414(c)(2) makes it unlawful to use a radio, musical instrument, phonograph, TV, or other sound-reproduction device that (A) disturbs the peace, quiet, and comfort of persons of normal sensitivity in the area, or (B) exceeds the Section 36.404 limits when measured 25 feet from a device operating in a public right-of-way. A device plainly audible 50 feet or more from the building, structure, or vehicle is a prima facie violation (Sec. 36.414(c)(3)). Commercial/business advertising by loudspeaker or sound amplifier over any street, sidewalk, park, or public property is prohibited unless mounted on a 'sound truck' meeting all of Section 36.414(c)(4)'s conditions: only non-obscene music or speech; operation only between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. (later only during public events of general interest); the truck must be moving at least 10 mph (no more than one minute of sound per traffic stop); no sound within 100 yards of a hospital, school, church, or courthouse; volume not exceeding 65 dBA at 50 feet; and the same street cannot be passed more than twice per hour. Sound amplifying equipment is defined in Section 36.402(q). Permitted public events under a County license are exempt (Sec. 36.417(a)(3)).