Westminster, CA Noise Ordinances: Outdoor Music (2026)

Westminster has no separate entertainment-permit noise schedule; outdoor music is handled through its Noise Control chapter. Under WMC Sections 8.28.040 and 8.28.050, the exterior base limit is 55 dB(A) in citywide Zone 1 and 60 dB(A) daytime / 55 dB(A) nighttime in the R2-R5 Zone 2, and any noise consisting of music content is measured against a limit reduced by 5 dB(A). The chapter provides an exemption in Section 8.28.060(B) for activities conducted under a permit for outdoor gatherings, public events and similar functions, so a city-approved festival, parade, or special event can lawfully exceed the routine limits within the terms of its permit. This is significant in Westminster, home to the Little Saigon district, where outdoor cultural festivals and night-market style events are common; organizers typically operate under city event permits, while routine private or commercial outdoor music remains subject to the standard limits. The graduated duration thresholds in Section 8.28.040 still apply to non-exempt outdoor music - the limit may not be exceeded more than 30 minutes per hour, and exceeding it by 20 dB(A) for any period is unlawful. Where a recurring event cannot meet the limits, a variance may be sought through the county noise variance board under Section 8.28.080. Because Westminster is an incorporated city, these rules - not Orange County's - apply within its boundaries.