Bostonia, CA Noise Ordinances: Outdoor Music (2026)

Outdoor music is governed by the County's general noise prohibitions. A sound-reproduction device used in a County park may not exceed the Section 36.404 limits when measured 25 feet from the device, unless a permit from the County Parks and Recreation Department specifies the time, location, and conditions for amplified sound (Sec. 36.414(c)(2)(C)). Even with a permit, a person using such a device in a County park may not exceed 90 dBA when measured 50 feet from the source, nor exceed the Section 36.404 limits at the park boundary; this subsection is enforced by the Parks and Recreation Department. For private-property outdoor events, the general Section 36.404 zone limits apply (50 dBA day / 45 dBA night in standard residential zones), and any device plainly audible 50 feet or more from the building, structure, or vehicle is a prima facie violation under Section 36.414(c)(3). Sporting, entertainment, and public events conducted under a County license or permit are exempt within the scope of that permit (Sec. 36.417(a)(3)), as is noise reasonably related to authorized school bands, athletic activities, and entertainment events (Sec. 36.417(a)(2)). The County does not set a separate decibel number for backyard parties - those default to the Section 36.404 limits plus the general nuisance rule.