Glendale Quiet Hours Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Glendale Municipal Code Chapter 8.36, adopted in 1991, establishes comprehensive noise control regulations for the city. Exterior noise standards are based on the zoning classification of the receiving property. In single-family residential and cemetery zones, the limits are 55 dBA during daytime (7 AM to 10 PM) and 45 dBA during nighttime (10 PM to 7 AM). Multifamily residential properties including hotels and motels have a 60 dBA limit at all times. Commercial zones are limited to 65 dBA and industrial zones to 70 dBA.

Noise exceeding the presumed ambient level (or the actual ambient if lower) by more than 5 dBA is considered a violation. If the noise contains a pure tone, impulsive sound, or rapidly varying sound, the standard is further reduced by 5 dBA. Measurements are taken using the A-weighted scale with slow response over a five-minute equivalent sound level (Leq) period. During nighttime hours, it is unlawful for service or maintenance vehicles of a non-emergency nature to operate in residential areas, and residents may not operate radios, musical instruments, televisions, or other sound-producing devices in a manner that disturbs neighboring residents.

Exemptions include emergency vehicles, warning devices for public safety, and sounds emitted during emergency work. Violations may be declared a public nuisance subject to abatement by restraining order or injunction. Noise complaints can be reported to the Glendale Police Department non-emergency line at (818) 548-4840.