San Diego, CA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in San Diego, CA, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Daytime limit (7am-7pm)
- 65 decibels
- Nighttime limit
- 55 decibels
- Measured at
- 10 feet from source
- Where
- Parks, beaches, adjacent lots/streets
- Bypass option
- Written City Manager approval
Summary
Radios, phonographs, and other sound devices played in San Diego's public parks, beaches, or adjacent lots and streets are capped at 65 decibels from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 55 decibels overnight, measured 10 feet from the source.
The operation of any radio, phonograph, television set, or any other sound production or reproduction device in any public park or on any public beach or any public parking lot or street adjacent to such park or beach, without the prior written approval of the City Manager or the Administrator... exceeding those found in the following table at any point ten (10) feet or more from the noise source is prohibited: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. - 65 decibels; 7:01 p.m. to 6:59 a.m. - 55 decibels.
Full Breakdown
SDMC § 59.5.0502(f) sets numeric sound-level limits for radios, phonographs, televisions, and other sound production or reproduction devices played in a public park, on a public beach, or in a public parking lot or street adjacent to either, without prior written approval from the City Manager or Noise Abatement Administrator. The cap is 65 decibels from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., dropping to 55 decibels from 7:01 p.m. to 6:59 a.m., measured at any point 10 feet or more from the source. These limits apply specifically to City parks and beaches; outdoor amplified sound elsewhere in San Diego falls instead under the general 'plainly audible' nuisance standard in § 59.5.0502(b).
Violations & Fines
Exceeding these limits without City Manager approval is a misdemeanor under SDMC § 59.5.0604: up to a $1,000 fine, up to 6 months in jail, or both, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play amplified music at a San Diego beach without a permit?
Does this decibel limit apply to backyard parties?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle amplified music & outdoor sound.