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

Section 5.04.040(B)(2)(a) makes it unlawful to play, use, operate, or allow to be played, used or operated, any radio, musical instrument, television, loudspeaker, bullhorn, amplifier, public address system, or other sound-producing machine or device in a manner that disturbs the peace, quiet and comfort of persons of normal sensitivity in the area. Section 5.04.040(B)(2)(b) sets a prima facie standard: operating any such device between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. louder than the average conversational level at a distance of 50 feet from the building, structure or vehicle where it is located, measured vertically or horizontally, is itself evidence of a violation, shifting the practical burden onto the operator once that threshold is crossed.

Section 5.04.040(B)(2)(c) exempts a person participating in a public assembly, or a parade, athletic event, or outdoor special event, from these limits between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., but only if a permit has been issued for the event where one is required and the person is complying with that permit. Section 5.04.040(B)(2)(d) exempts emergency signal devices covered separately under Section 5.04.100. The general noise-nuisance standard in Section 5.04.040(A) lists factors an enforcement officer may weigh in any disturbing-noise case, including the noise level, whether it is usual or unusual, its proximity to sleeping areas, the zoning and density of the surrounding area, the time of day, and whether it is recurrent or constant; Section 5.04.030 provides that wherever noise provisions conflict, the most restrictive limit controls, and the Director of Community Services is designated the Noise Control Officer.