Amplified music rules in Riverside, CA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Under RMC § 7.35.010(D) as amended in 2025, any loud music or noise from sound amplifying equipment or live performance that is plainly audible 25 feet or more from the source property is prohibited at any time.
Riverside's amplified-sound rule was strengthened in 2025. RMC § 7.35.010(D) now flatly prohibits emitting or transmitting any loud music or noise disturbance from sound amplifying equipment or live performance that is 'plainly audible from a distance of 25 feet or more from the edge of the property, structure, or unit from which the source is located.' This applies at all times, not only quiet hours. RMC § 7.35.010(B)(2) separately prohibits operating any loudspeaker between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. that creates a noise disturbance across a residential property line or, at any time, exceeds the dBA limit for the underlying land-use category (Table 7.25.010A - 55 dBA day / 45 dBA night residential, 65 dBA office/commercial). 'Sound amplifying equipment' is defined at § 7.10.185. Variances for non-commercial public speaking and assemblies are available through Chapter 7.40. School and city-permitted entertainment events are exempt under § 7.35.020(B) between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.
RMC § 7.15.010: $500 first / $750 second / $1,000 third+ violation. May be charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. Each day of continuing violation is a separate offense (§ 7.15.005(C)). The 25-foot audibility test is enforceable without a sound meter, which makes amplified-music citations easier to issue than dBA-based fines.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Riverside County.
See how other cities in Riverside County handle amplified music & events.
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