Outdoor music at residences, parks, and events in Costa Mesa must comply with CMMC Title 13 noise standards. Amplified outdoor music requires compliance with decibel limits and permitted hours, with exceptions for city-authorized events at venues like the OC Fair & Event Center.
CMMC Title 13 regulates outdoor music as part of general noise standards. Amplified music from residential properties must not exceed applicable decibel limits at neighboring property lines. Nighttime quiet hours (10 PM to 7 AM) apply stricter standards. Costa Mesa hosts significant outdoor entertainment at the OC Fair & Event Center, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and the Pacific Amphitheatre, which operate under conditional use permits with specific sound management plans. Private outdoor events with amplified music may require a special event permit from the city. Parks operated by the city have posted hours and noise rules. Live music at restaurants and bars along 17th Street and in the SoBECA district must comply with conditions of their business permits. Noise complaints go to Costa Mesa PD at (714) 754-5280.
Outdoor music exceeding CMMC Title 13 decibel limits may result in administrative citations and fines. Venues violating CUP noise conditions face permit enforcement. Repeat residential violations may escalate to misdemeanor charges.
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