Huntington Beach Outdoor Music Rules Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Huntington Beach's noise control ordinance under HBMC Chapter 8.40 applies to all forms of outdoor amplified sound, including live music, DJ systems, loudspeakers, public address systems, and outdoor television or radio broadcasts. In residential areas, amplified sound that is audible beyond the property line during quiet hours (10 PM to 7 AM) is a per se violation regardless of measured decibel level. During daytime hours (7 AM to 10 PM), amplified sound in residential areas must comply with the 55 dBA exterior limit measured at the nearest affected property line.

The city's vibrant beach culture and active downtown entertainment district along Main Street and in the Pacific City development create unique enforcement challenges. Bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues that operate outdoor patios with amplified music are subject to conditional use permit (CUP) conditions that typically specify maximum decibel levels at the property line, required hours for ceasing amplified sound (often earlier than the general 10 PM quiet-hour threshold), and operational requirements such as sound limiters on outdoor speaker systems and directional speaker placement to minimize noise spillover into adjacent residential areas.

Public events on the beach, at the pier, or in city parks that include amplified sound — such as concerts, festivals, surf competitions, and community celebrations — require a special event permit from the Community & Library Services Department. The permit specifies allowed hours for amplified sound, maximum decibel levels, and required sound monitoring. Major events like the U.S. Open of Surfing and Fourth of July celebrations may receive temporary noise variances, but these are limited in duration and subject to conditions.