San Luis Obispo County, CA Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Section 23.06.044 of the County Code reduces the otherwise applicable exterior noise standards by 5 dB for 'simple tone noises, noises consisting primarily of speech or music, or for recurring impulsive noises' - meaning amplified music at a receiving residential property is limited to roughly 45 dBA Leq during the day and 40 dBA Leq at night. For organized events with amplified sound, Section 23.08.248 (Temporary Events) requires a land-use permit. The county's Department of Planning and Building requires applicants to submit a noise study identifying the impact of amplified sound on surrounding properties and methods to ensure compliance with County Code Section 22.10.120 (non-coastal) or 23.06.040 (coastal). Temporary events generally require a Minor Use Permit; events on properties with fewer than two public access points may require a Conditional Use Permit.