Novato, CA Public Conduct: Loud Party Ordinance (2026)

Chapter XIV, section 14-19 of the Novato Municipal Code defines an uncontrolled gathering as three or more persons on any private property creating a substantial disturbance of quiet enjoyment through loud and raucous noise in violation of § 1-6.4(n). Section 14-19.1 says residents should, if possible, first try to resolve a neighborhood disturbance between themselves before involving law enforcement. Under § 14-19.3 a peace officer can abate the gathering by citation, arrest or dispersal, consistent with the First and Fourth Amendments.

The first response is a notice step. Under § 14-19.4 the officer tells a responsible person at the premises that any further uncontrolled gathering there within 180 days can bring liability, and mails a first-class letter to the occupant or tenant. The property owner receives a separate letter by certified mail, with the return receipt serving as prima facie evidence of service.

Liability starts with a second response within 180 days, including a second response the same night. Under § 14-19.5 the persons liable are the owner (if present at the first response, or if the certified letter was sent and 14 days have passed since receipt of the return receipt), the persons residing in or controlling the premises, and every attendee who caused or contributed to the gathering being uncontrolled. Section 14-19.6 sets the administrative scale: up to $750 for the second response, up to $850 for the third, and up to $1,000 for each violation from the fourth on. A juvenile and the juvenile's parents or guardians are jointly and severally liable.

A person who disputes a notice of violation has 15 days to return a Request for Hearing Form to the city clerk with a $150 appeals processing fee and the full penalty, unless a hardship waiver is requested within ten days. The hearing is held before the Police Advisory Review Board no sooner than 15 and no later than 60 days after the request, the board issues written findings within 30 days, and review lies in Marin County Superior Court under § 14-19.10. Unpaid penalties can become a lien on the owner's real property under § 14-19.9.