Amplified music rules in San Rafael, CA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
§8.13.030 prohibits loud or unusual noises that disturb the peace, comfort, or repose of others. This catch-all complement to the §8.13.040 dBA table covers stereos, parties, and amplified sound that may not always trigger a sound-level reading but still cross a reasonableness threshold.
Officers do not have to run a sound-meter measurement to cite under §8.13.030 — the standard is whether a reasonable person of normal sensibilities would be disturbed. Amplified music audible inside a neighboring residence at night is the classic example. Permitted special events and noise-ordinance exception permits issued by the City Manager can authorize amplified sound that would otherwise violate the section.
Listed in the bail schedule at $100 base / $410 total as an infraction and $500 base / $2,050 total as a misdemeanor.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
San Rafael, CA
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San Rafael, CA
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San Rafael, CA
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San Rafael, CA
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San Rafael, CA
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San Rafael, CA
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See how San Rafael's amplified music & events rules stack up against other locations.
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