Monterey Park, CA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Chapter 4.50 defines "sound-amplifying equipment" as any machine, equipment or device that amplifies the human voice, music or any other sound, excluding vehicle radios, emergency warning devices and traffic horns (§ 4.50.020). Section 4.50.080 sets the sound level limits by land use and time period: residential property is capped at 50 dBA at night (ten p.m. to seven a.m.) and 55 dBA in daytime, neighborhood commercial property at 60 dBA anytime, other commercial at 65 dBA anytime, and industrial property at 70 dBA anytime. If ambient noise is already higher than these presumed levels, the higher measured ambient level controls (§ 4.50.070).

A steady, audible tone such as a whine or hum triggers a further five-decibel reduction in the applicable limit (§ 4.50.090). Athletic events on city, school district or county recreation facilities are exempt from seven a.m. to ten p.m. only if no amplified music or sound system is used (§ 4.50.050(g)). Anyone who cannot meet the chapter's limits may apply to the city manager or designee for a temporary noise permit, capped at three months, on a showing that compliance would be impractical (§ 4.50.060).

Separately, § 9.09.010 requires anyone using an amplifying system or loudspeaker on a public street to first obtain a permit from the city council or city manager; the permit is denied only if the activity would constitute a public nuisance. Violations of Chapter 4.50 that are not otherwise designated as infractions are prosecuted as misdemeanors under the code's general penalty provision.