Glendale enforces presumed ambient noise standards under GMC 8.36.040. Residential (single-family/duplex) zones are limited to 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime exterior. Multifamily residential allows 60 dBA. Commercial zones are set at 65 dBA. Any noise exceeding the presumed ambient plus 5 dBA is a violation.
GMC Section 8.36.040 establishes presumed ambient noise standards by zone. Cemetery and residential single-family/duplex zones: 55 dBA daytime, 45 dBA nighttime. Multifamily residential, hotels, motels, and transient lodgings: 60 dBA anytime. Central business district and commercial zones: 65 dBA anytime. Industrial zones: 70 dBA anytime. Interior noise standards for residential properties are 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime. Where the actual ambient is lower than the presumed ambient, the actual ambient controls and noise exceeding it by more than 5 dBA is a violation. At the boundary between two zones, the arithmetic average of the presumed ambient noise levels applies. If offensive noise contains a pure tone, impulsive sound, or rapidly varying sound, the standard is reduced by an additional 5 dBA. Measurements use the A-weighted scale with slow response.
Misdemeanor citation. Each day a violation continues constitutes a separate offense. Noise exceeding 95 dBA triggers additional warning requirements under Section 8.36.150.
Glendale, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
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