Outdoor amplified music in Ventura is governed by the same exterior sound-level standards in SBMC Chapter 10.650 (Noise Control), with additional permit requirements for special events on public property administered by the City. Coastal-zone events near the Promenade and the Ventura Pier may also require Coastal Commission coordination. Bars, restaurants and venues with regular live outdoor entertainment are typically conditioned through their Conditional Use Permit (CUP) under Division 13 Zoning.
Amplified outdoor sound counts as a noise source under SBMC Ch. 10.650 and must meet the receiving-property-line dBA standard for the affected zone. Above that, the City controls amplified outdoor music in two additional ways: (1) Special Event Permits — required for amplified sound on city streets, parks, beaches, or the Promenade, with hour and decibel conditions set per event; (2) Conditional Use Permits — most restaurants and bars hosting regular live entertainment must obtain a CUP under SBMC Division 13 (Zoning Regulations), which conditions hours, location of speakers, and patio sound management. The Coastal Commission may have additional input for events within the Coastal Zone along the Promenade and at the Pier. State Alcoholic Beverage Control Type 47/48 licenses do not preempt local noise rules.
Operating without a Special Event Permit or violating CUP noise conditions is an SBMC violation subject to Title 1 penalties (infraction/misdemeanor), and a CUP may be revoked or modified through public hearing for chronic noise complaints. Exceeding Ch. 10.650 dBA limits during an event triggers the same enforcement as any noise violation.
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