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

Torrance Municipal Code Division 4, Chapter 6, Article 5 governs the use of amplified sound within the city. It is unlawful for any person (other than law enforcement or government personnel) to install, use, or operate a loudspeaker or sound amplifying equipment in a fixed or movable position, or mounted on any sound truck, for the purposes of giving instructions, directions, talks, addresses, lectures, or transmitting music in or upon any street, alley, sidewalk, park, place, or public property without first filing an application and obtaining a permit.

Amplified sound equipment may only operate between the hours of 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM each day, except on Sundays and legal holidays. The only sounds permitted are music or human speech. The City Council may grant one-time exemptions to the amplified sound hours on a case-by-case basis for specific events.

For private property, the general noise ordinance applies: radios, musical instruments, phonographs, television sets, or other sound-producing devices must not create noise levels on residential land that would disturb the peace, quiet, and comfort of neighboring residents. The 5-decibel-above-ambient rule applies at residential property lines.