Amplified music rules in Santa Barbara County, CA — also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances — set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Section 40-2 of Chapter 40 expressly prohibits broadcasting loud or unreasonable music outside any residence or building through musical instruments, drums, speakers, or radios during the county's nighttime hours.
Santa Barbara County's only countywide amplified-sound rule is embedded in the Chapter 40 nighttime restriction. Section 40-2 itemizes the prohibited devices as 'musical instruments, drums, speakers, radios, or any other device that reproduces or broadcasts sounds' and applies whenever such sound is broadcast outside any residence or building during the protected hours (Sun-Thu 10:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m.; Fri-Sat midnight-7:00 a.m.). There is no decibel-based daytime amplified-sound limit for unincorporated areas in Chapter 40. Outdoor amplified events held during the day on private property in the unincorporated county may instead be regulated through conditional-use permits issued under the County's Land Use and Development Code (Article 35) or through Special Event permits where applicable. Daytime amplification that unreasonably disturbs neighbors can also be cited under California Penal Code § 415 (disturbing the peace) by Sheriff's deputies.
Section 40-2 violations are infractions citable by Sheriff's deputies. The fine for a first violation may not exceed $100, plus court fees. Civil action by neighbors under nuisance law (Cal. Civ. Code § 3479) remains available.
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